What are the clinical symptoms of gallstones?

The clinical symptoms of gallstones mainly include right upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Knowing these symptoms will help to detect and deal with this problem in time.

Gallstones refer to stones in the gallbladder or bile duct, which are formed by the deposition of cholesterol, bile salts, calcium and other substances. The causes of gallstones are complex and are often related to factors such as eating habits, age, gender, and genetics. The onset of symptoms is closely related to the size and location of the stones and whether they cause obstruction.

Pain in the right upper abdomen is the most common symptom of gallstones. The pain usually comes on suddenly and is severe and unbearable. It often feels like a knife or colic, and can radiate to the right shoulder and back. This pain often occurs a few hours after eating fat-rich foods because food stimulates the contraction of the gallbladder, which induces pain. In addition to pain, nausea and vomiting are also common symptoms, especially when pain occurs. If gallstones block the bile duct, jaundice may occur, which manifests as yellowing of the skin and sclera. Some patients also experience symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating, hiccups, and loss of appetite, especially after eating greasy foods.

For gallstones, good living and eating habits can reduce the frequency of attacks. It is recommended to eat a low-fat diet, avoid overeating, reduce cholesterol intake, increase dietary fiber, eat more fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water, maintain moderate exercise, and avoid sitting for long periods of time. If the symptoms are severe or occur frequently, you should seek medical attention in time. The doctor will take different treatment measures according to the specific situation, such as drug dissolution, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or cholecystectomy.

Paying attention to your own health and understanding the symptoms of gallstones can help us detect problems in time and avoid worsening of the condition. If you have suspected symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor as soon as possible for professional examination and treatment.