What are the symptoms of gallstones?

The symptoms of gallstones vary from person to person. Common manifestations include paroxysmal colic in the right upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, etc. Some severe cases may show signs of fever and jaundice, so you should seek medical attention promptly.

The severity of gallstone symptoms depends mainly on the location and size of the stones. When gallstones get stuck in the gallbladder or bile duct, they may cause biliary colic, which is often located in the right upper abdomen and may radiate to the right shoulder or back. It usually worsens after eating greasy food. Indigestion, bloating, and belching are also common. If the stones cause blockage of the bile duct and bile cannot be excreted normally, jaundice may occur, manifested as yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, accompanied by darker urine. In severe cases, acute cholecystitis or cholangitis may occur, accompanied by high fever, chills, general fatigue, and even sepsis.

In order to relieve symptoms and prevent complications, it is recommended to reduce the intake of greasy, high-cholesterol foods, eat more fruits and vegetables and foods rich in dietary fiber, and control weight appropriately. If symptoms occur frequently or the condition worsens, you can choose drug lithotripsy (such as ursodeoxycholic acid), minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomy or percutaneous gallbladder puncture and drainage. You should pay attention to a healthy lifestyle, avoid overeating, and have regular physical examinations to monitor the development of gallstones. If you experience severe abdominal pain or jaundice, you should seek medical treatment immediately to avoid causing more serious health problems.