Introduction
Gallstones are one of the most common digestive problems seen in general practice, yet many people live with symptoms for months before recognising what’s causing them. This article covers what gallstones are, the symptoms to watch for, and when treatment moves from “monitor it” to “surgery is recommended.”
What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver that stores bile used for digesting fat. They can range from the size of a grain of sand to a golf ball, and a person can have one large stone or many small ones.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen, often after a fatty meal
- Pain that spreads to the back or right shoulder blade
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bloating or indigestion after eating
- In more serious cases: fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or dark urine — these warrant urgent medical attention
Some gallstones cause no symptoms at all and are only discovered during a scan for an unrelated issue (“silent gallstones”).
What Causes Gallstones?
Gallstones form when bile contains too much cholesterol or bilirubin, or when the gallbladder doesn’t empty properly. Common risk factors include:
- Family history of gallstones
- Obesity or rapid weight loss
- A diet high in fat and low in fibre
- Age over 40, and higher incidence in women
- Certain conditions like diabetes
When Does It Require Surgery?
Not every gallstone needs surgery. Silent, symptom-free stones are often simply monitored. Surgery — typically laparoscopic cholecystectomy (minimally invasive gallbladder removal) — is usually recommended when:
- Symptoms are recurring or significantly affecting daily life
- There’s a risk of complications such as infection, blockage of the bile duct, or pancreatitis
- Imaging shows a large stone or signs of gallbladder inflammation
Laparoscopic surgery is the standard approach today because it involves smaller incisions, less pain, and a faster recovery compared to open surgery.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you’re experiencing symptoms, consult a qualified gastroenterologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Consult Dr. Hamikchandra Patel for gallbladder-related concerns, or learn more about Gall Bladder Disorders treatment at Shaleen Hospital, Ahmedabad.
