Symptoms of gallstones

If you suspect you have gallstones, you should see a doctor immediately if you have symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, jaundice, or fever. The main symptoms of gallstones usually include sudden, severe pain in the upper and middle abdomen, especially within a few hours of eating greasy foods. Some people may also feel radiating pain in the shoulder or back. In addition to pain, gallstones may cause indigestion, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. If the stones are blocking the bile duct, jaundice and fever may occur, which are signs of a gallbladder infection.

Symptoms of gallstones can also vary depending on the size and mobility of the stone. Small gallstones may cause few noticeable symptoms, while larger stones may cause frequent cramping pain. Some people may develop an inflammation of the gallbladder due to long-term irritation from the stones. In this case, the pain is usually constant and may be present even at rest. When stones migrate into the bile ducts, they may cause more serious complications such as acute cholangitis or pancreatitis, which can present with more systemic symptoms.

Symptoms of gallstones can also vary depending on the size and mobility of the stone. Small gallstones may cause few noticeable symptoms, while larger stones may cause frequent cramping pain. Some people may develop an inflammation of the gallbladder due to long-term irritation from the stones. In this case, the pain is usually constant and may be present even at rest. When stones migrate into the bile ducts, they may cause more serious complications such as acute cholangitis or pancreatitis, which can present with more systemic symptoms.

For the management of gallstones, common lifestyle adjustments such as reducing high-fat dietary intake, increasing dietary fiber intake, and exercising regularly may help. If symptoms are severe or recurring, your doctor may recommend medication, such as oral bile acid medications to gradually dissolve gallstones, or surgery. Cholecystectomy is a common surgical option for treating gallstones, usually performed through a minimally invasive laparoscopy. In the face of severe symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible, and timely medical intervention can avoid more health risks. In life, maintaining good eating habits and a healthy lifestyle can effectively reduce the risk of recurrence of gallstones. By taking timely measures and medical advice, you can not only improve your quality of life, but also give yourself more peace of mind.