Gallstones
Common ConditionHardened deposits in the gallbladder that may cause pain and complications. Often discovered incidentally or during attacks.
Symptoms
Sudden intense pain in upper right abdomen
Pain below breastbone
Pain between shoulder blades
Right shoulder pain
Nausea and vomiting
Pain lasting hours
Pain after fatty meals
Fever and chills (if infected)
Jaundice (if blocking bile duct)
Many people have no symptoms
Causes
1
Too much cholesterol in bile2
Too much bilirubin in bile3
Gallbladder not emptying properly4
Female gender5
Age over 406
Obesity7
Rapid weight loss8
Pregnancy9
Family history10
High-fat dietTreatments
Surgery (cholecystectomy)
Laparoscopic surgery (minimally invasive)
Medications to dissolve stones (rare)
ERCP for bile duct stones
Low-fat diet
Observation for asymptomatic stones
Pain management during attacks
Antibiotics if infected
Managing complications
Lifestyle modifications
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor for episodes of upper abdominal pain, especially after fatty meals. Seek emergency care for severe pain, fever, jaundice, or pain lasting more than a few hours.
Find a Specialist NowAbout Gallstones
Gallstones: When Surgery Is the Solution
Many gallstones cause no symptoms and don't need treatment. But symptomatic gallstones usually require surgery—laparoscopic cholecystectomy is safe and effective with quick recovery.
"Kung masakit ang gallstones, surgery ang solusyon—safe at mabilis ang recovery."
Doctors Treating Gallstones
