What are the early symptoms of gallstones?

Gallstones may manifest as dull pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen in the early stages. The so-called "letters from stones" are usually not very obvious, but they are enough to attract attention. If you feel an indescribable heaviness in a corner of your stomach, you may need to pay more attention.

Gallstones are small stones in the gallbladder that form when cholesterol or bile pigments in the bile are too high. In the complex workings of our bodies, the gallbladder stores and concentrates bile, which helps us digest fats. If the concentration of substances in the bile is not balanced, small particles may gradually coagulate into stones. This process is much like the crystals left behind when salt water evaporates.

Regarding early symptoms, in addition to the upper abdominal discomfort mentioned above, there is sometimes bloating, nausea or indigestion after meals, especially after eating greasy food. At this time, the stomach may be experiencing a "small energy crisis" because the bile cannot flow out smoothly due to the stones, and the digestion process is disturbed. Some people may experience radiating pain in the back or subscapular area, which is not so typical, but still needs attention.

If you suspect you have gallstones, it is recommended that you adjust your diet as soon as possible, reduce the intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, and reduce the burden on your gallbladder, which is a bit like supporting a hard-working employee. However, the most important thing is to stay vigilant and have regular physical examinations, and seek medical help when necessary, so as to ensure that you can detect and treat gallstone problems in time to avoid developing more serious complications.