What are the symptoms of gallstones?

The main symptom of gallstones is severe pain in the upper abdomen, especially in the right upper abdomen, and the pain may radiate to the back or right shoulder. In addition to pain, some patients also experience nausea, vomiting, indigestion and other symptoms.

Gallstones are a common disease of the biliary system, usually caused by excessive cholesterol and bile pigments, which crystallize and precipitate in the gallbladder. After the occurrence of gallstones, patients usually feel uncomfortable after eating greasy food or a few hours after a meal. Because food promotes gallbladder contraction, these stones can block the bile duct, causing pain and other discomfort.

If the gallstones are not blocking the bile duct, the symptoms may not be obvious or only cause mild discomfort. However, when the stones move and block the bile duct, it can cause severe cramping pain, medically known as biliary colic. This pain usually comes on suddenly and can last from a few minutes to several hours. The pain is sometimes accompanied by pain in the back and right shoulder, which can make the patient feel very uncomfortable. Some patients may also develop jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, because the bile blockage affects its normal excretion.

One way to relieve gallstone symptoms is to maintain a healthy diet and reduce your intake of foods high in fat and cholesterol. Eat more fiber-rich foods, such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, which help keep your digestive system running healthy. Maintaining a proper weight and exercising regularly can also prevent the formation of gallstones. It is also important to drink enough water, which helps dilute bile and reduces the risk of stone formation.

Although mild gallstone symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes, if symptoms become severe or frequent, especially if accompanied by jaundice or fever, you should seek medical attention immediately. A professional doctor can use imaging tests, such as ultrasound, to accurately diagnose and prescribe appropriate treatment plans. In severe cases of gallstones, your doctor may recommend a cholecystectomy to completely resolve the problem.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for the prevention and management of gallstones, but serious symptoms must be taken seriously and professional medical help sought.