What are the main symptoms of gallstones?

The main symptoms of gallstones include pain in the right upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting, indigestion and jaundice. Symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the stones and whether they cause complications, but some patients may not feel any obvious symptoms for a long time.

Gallstones are formed gradually due to an imbalance in the composition of bile, such as too much cholesterol or too little bile salt, which leads to crystal deposition. When the stones are small in the gallbladder, there may be no obvious discomfort; once the stones move or block the bile duct, symptoms will begin to appear. Colic in the right upper abdomen is a very typical feeling, usually lasting from tens of minutes to several hours, and may radiate to the right shoulder and back.

Pain in the right upper abdomen is common after eating high-fat foods, and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting, especially if the gallstones cause inflammation. In addition, bile duct obstruction may cause jaundice, which can appear as a yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin, or even darker urine. If the gallstones cause an infection, the patient may also experience fever and chills.

To reduce the impact of gallstones on health, you need to pay attention to your diet, consume more dietary fiber, and eat less high-fat, high-cholesterol foods. It is also important to maintain good living habits, such as moderate exercise and weight control. If the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time, make a clear diagnosis through imaging examinations, and take appropriate treatment plans to avoid worsening complications.