What are the symptoms of gallstones?

The main symptoms of gallstones are usually right upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and indigestion. If these symptoms occur repeatedly, you should seek medical attention in time for diagnosis and treatment. Gallstones are a common digestive disease, and their symptoms vary from person to person. Knowing these symptoms can help with early detection and treatment.

1. Pain in the right upper abdomen. One of the most typical symptoms of gallstones is pain in the right upper abdomen, especially after eating high-fat foods. This pain may radiate to the back or right shoulder and usually lasts from minutes to hours. In severe cases, it may become biliary colic and you need to seek medical help as soon as possible. For mild pain, you can try to adjust your diet, reduce fat intake, or use warm water bags for heat relief.

2. Nausea and vomiting. Gallstones can cause severe indigestion, which manifests as nausea or vomiting. This is usually especially obvious after eating, because the digestion of food requires the participation of bile, and gallstones may hinder this process. Avoiding greasy food and drinking enough water can alleviate this symptom to a certain extent. If the symptoms are severe, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

3. Indigestion and bloating. Due to the obstruction of bile flow, patients may experience indigestion and bloating. The inability to digest food properly, especially fatty foods, can cause stomach bloating and discomfort. To relieve these symptoms, it is recommended to increase dietary fiber intake, such as fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, to help promote peristalsis in the digestive tract.

4. Jaundice and fever. If gallstones cause a bile duct obstruction, jaundice and fever may occur. These symptoms indicate that there may be an infection or cholangitis, which is a signal that you need to see a doctor urgently. Your doctor may recommend antibiotics to control the infection or, if necessary, perform a gallbladder removal surgery to solve the problem.

The symptoms of gallstones are varied and may be accompanied by a variety of discomforts. If severe symptoms such as severe pain and jaundice occur, you should seek medical attention immediately. In addition to the doctor's advice, dietary adjustments in daily life are also crucial. Reducing the intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods can prevent the aggravation of symptoms to a certain extent. For patients who have been diagnosed, following the doctor's treatment plan and undergoing regular checkups, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can effectively manage symptoms and improve the quality of life. Caring for your own health is everyone's responsibility. Paying attention to changes in the body in a timely manner can help us take early precautions and stay away from disease troubles.