Digestive
Gallstones
About Gallstones
Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in the gallbladder, a small organ under the liver. They can range in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball.
Common Symptoms
- sudden and intensifying pain in the upper right abdomen
- pain in the center of the abdomen, just below the breastbone
- back pain between the shoulder blades
- pain in the right shoulder
- nausea
- vomiting
- jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
- fever
- chills
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and imaging tests. An abdominal ultrasound is commonly used, and other tests like CT scans, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound may also be performed to visualize the gallbladder and bile ducts.
Causes
Gallstones can form when there's too much cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile, or if the gallbladder doesn't empty properly. Factors such as genetics, diet, obesity, rapid weight loss, and certain medical conditions may increase risk.
Treatment Overview
Treatment approaches vary depending on the severity of symptoms. Options may include watchful waiting for asymptomatic cases, medications to dissolve gallstones, or surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). Some individuals also explore dietary modifications, although these are typically adjuncts and not primary treatments for existing stones.
Prognosis & Outlook
For individuals with symptomatic gallstones, treatment, particularly surgical removal of the gallbladder, often leads to a favorable outcome. Many people live healthy lives without their gallbladder, though some may experience digestive changes afterward.
Types & Variants
Cholesterol Gallstones
The most common type, often appearing yellow in color. These are composed mainly of undissolved cholesterol but may contain other components.
Pigment Gallstones
These stones are dark brown or black and form when your bile contains too much bilirubin. They are more common in people with certain medical conditions, such as liver cirrhosis or blood disorders like sickle cell anemia.
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