What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are hard, pebble-like pieces that form in the gallbladder — a small organ that sits beneath the liver and stores bile. These stones are primarily made up of cholesterol or bile pigments. Many people with gallstones experience no symptoms at all; however, if a stone blocks the flow of bile, it can lead to painful and occasionally serious complications.
Symptoms
- Sudden, sharp pain in the upper right side of the abdomen (biliary colic), often after eating fatty foods
- Nausea and vomiting
- Indigestion or a feeling of fullness
- Fever and jaundice (yellowing of the skin), which may indicate a more serious condition requiring urgent assessment
Risk Factors
Gallstones are more common in certain groups. You may be at higher risk if you are:
- Over 40 years old
- Overweight or obese
- Female, particularly after pregnancy
- Losing weight rapidly
- Taking certain medications such as hormone replacement therapy or the contraceptive pill
Treatment
If gallstones are causing symptoms, the most effective treatment is surgery to remove the gallbladder — a procedure called a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This is a minimally invasive procedure performed through small incisions, typically under a general anaesthetic.
It is important to know that you can live a completely healthy life without your gallbladder. Bile will continue to flow directly from your liver to your intestines, and the vast majority of patients notice no long-term dietary restrictions after recovery. Most patients return to normal activities within one to two weeks.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to gallstones, an early consultation allows for proper assessment and a clear plan — avoiding the risk of complications such as acute cholecystitis or pancreatitis.