What are the symptoms of gallstones and where does it hurt?

The main symptoms of gallstones include pain in the abdomen, especially cramping pain in the right upper or middle abdomen. The pain usually comes on suddenly and lasts from minutes to hours, sometimes with nausea, vomiting, or referred pain in the back and right shoulder. The pain often occurs after eating fatty foods, as these foods stimulate the gallbladder to contract, which can cause gallstones to move or become blocked.

Gallstones are small hard lumps formed when bile components from the liver solidify in the gallbladder. The main function of the gallbladder is to store and concentrate bile, which helps digestion, especially fat. However, when bile becomes supersaturated with cholesterol, bile pigments and calcium salts, it may deposit and form stones. Gallstones are more common in middle-aged and elderly people, obese people or those who tend to lie down after meals.

When dealing with gallstones, it is important to understand the diversity of symptoms. Some people may experience no symptoms at all, known as "asymptomatic gallstones," and these situations usually do not require immediate treatment. For some people who experience acute symptoms, more serious complications such as cholecystitis and cholangitis may develop. In this setting, the pain becomes constant and severe, and fever and jaundice may occur, indicating a possible bile duct obstruction or gallbladder infection.

If you suspect you have gallstones and experience severe pain or other systemic symptoms, it is recommended that you go to the hospital for examination and treatment in time. You can reduce the risk of gallstones by living a healthy lifestyle, such as a low-fat diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. Avoiding bad eating habits and excessive dieting, and consuming a moderate amount of healthy fats can also help prevent the formation of stones.