Overview
Gallstones are hard lumps that form in the gallbladder, a small sac under the liver that stores bile. Many people have them without ever knowing. Trouble starts when a stone blocks the flow of bile, causing sharp pain in the upper right belly, especially after fatty meals. Repeated attacks are usually treated by removing the gallbladder, a common and safe keyhole operation.
Symptoms
- Sudden, intense pain in the upper right or middle abdomen
- Pain spreading to the right shoulder or back
- Nausea and vomiting, often after fatty food
- Bloating and indigestion
- Yellowing of the eyes if a stone blocks the main bile duct
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for repeated bouts of upper-belly pain after meals, or if you notice yellow eyes or dark urine.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- High fever with chills, severe constant belly pain, or yellow skin and eyes — the bile duct may be blocked or infected, seek care urgently
Causes
Bile that contains too much cholesterol or bilirubin. Being female, overweight, over 40, having a family history, or rapid weight loss all raise the risk.