What are the common symptoms of gallstones?

Common symptoms of gallstones include upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, so it is crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible if similar symptoms occur. Although not all gallstones cause obvious discomfort, once the stones move or block the bile duct, they may cause serious problems such as acute cholecystitis.

Gallstones are caused by the accumulation of cholesterol or bile pigments in the gallbladder. Common risk factors include a high-fat diet, obesity, rapid weight loss, and certain chronic diseases. About 20% of gallstone patients will experience symptoms during their lifetime, mainly in middle-aged and elderly women.

Symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the gallstone. If a gallstone becomes lodged in the gallbladder outlet or bile duct, it may cause biliary colic, a pain that usually comes on suddenly and lasts from a few minutes to a few hours. The pain is usually located in the right upper abdomen and may spread to the right shoulder or back. In addition, if the bile duct is completely blocked, the risk of jaundice and infection increases. Patients may notice yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, along with fever and chills.

To avoid the discomfort and potential complications caused by gallstones, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eat a light diet with plenty of high-fiber foods, control the intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight. If you have symptoms suspected of gallstones, it is important to seek medical advice from a professional doctor in a timely manner to maintain your personal health.