Gallstones: An Overview

What Are Gallstones?

Gallstones are hard, pebble-like pieces that form in the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver. These stones are primarily made up of cholesterol or bile pigments. Many people with gallstones experience no symptoms; however, if the stones block the flow of bile, it can lead to painful complications.

Symptoms of Gallstones:

While some people may not experience any symptoms, others may notice:

• 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

Risk Factors:

Gallstones are more common in people who are:

• Over 40 years old

• Overweight

• Female (especially after pregnancy)

• Rapidly losing weight

• Taking certain medications like hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills

Treatment Options:

If gallstones cause symptoms, the most common treatment is surgery to remove the gallbladder, called a **laparoscopic cholecystectomy**. This is a minimally invasive procedure where small incisions are made to remove the gallbladder. You can live a healthy life without your gallbladder, as bile will still flow from your liver to your intestines. Recovery usually takes about two weeks.