What are the main symptoms of gallstones?

The main symptoms of gallstones include right upper abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, jaundice, etc. The severity of these symptoms varies depending on the size and number of gallstones and whether they cause complications such as cholecystitis. Mild symptoms can be improved by dietary adjustments, but if severe pain or jaundice occurs, you should see a doctor immediately for further diagnosis and treatment.

1. Right upper abdominal pain: the most typical manifestation of gallstones

Severe pain in the right upper abdomen or mid-upper abdomen is the most common symptom of gallstones, which usually occurs a few hours after eating greasy food, especially at night. This pain is mostly paroxysmal colic, which may radiate to the right shoulder and back. In severe cases, it can last for several hours and even cause sweating and paleness.

Solution:

People with mild symptoms can avoid eating high-fat, high-cholesterol foods to reduce the burden on the gallbladder.

If the pain persists, you should seek medical attention promptly, have an ultrasound examination to confirm the diagnosis, and take antispasmodics under the guidance of a doctor to relieve symptoms.

2. Nausea and vomiting: digestive function is affected

Gallstones block the excretion of bile, affecting the digestion and absorption of fat, and patients may experience symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. This condition is usually accompanied by abdominal pain, especially after eating greasy food.

Solution:

Eat a light diet and eat more fruits and vegetables rich in dietary fiber to reduce the burden on your stomach and intestines.

If nausea and vomiting occur repeatedly, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible to prevent further development of cholecystitis or cholangitis.

3. Indigestion and bloating: abnormal bile secretion

Gallstones may cause gallbladder dysfunction, reduced bile secretion or poor bile flow, leading to abdominal distension, belching and fat indigestion. This symptom is relatively hidden and is often mistaken for ordinary gastrointestinal discomfort.

Solution:

Eat regularly, eat small meals frequently, and avoid high-fat and high-cholesterol foods.

You can drink warm water or take medicinal digestive aids in moderation, but they must be used under the guidance of a doctor.

4. Jaundice: a sign of bile duct obstruction

When stones block the bile duct, the patient may develop jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, along with dark urine and light stools. This symptom indicates that the gallstones have caused a bile duct obstruction or infection, a condition that requires emergency treatment.

Solution:

If you find symptoms of jaundice, you should go to the hospital immediately for liver function and imaging tests.

Depending on the test results, your doctor may recommend endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or surgery to remove the stone.

Kind tips:

The symptoms of gallstones vary from person to person, and some patients may even have no obvious symptoms. However, once typical symptoms such as right upper abdominal pain and jaundice appear, you should seek medical attention in time to avoid complications. Developing healthy eating habits and avoiding overeating and high-fat diets are effective measures to prevent gallstones. If gallstones are diagnosed, you need to choose drug dissolution, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or surgical treatment according to your condition. The specific plan is formulated by the doctor. Paying attention to your own health and responding in a timely manner are the keys to ensuring the quality of life.