What are the main symptoms of gallstones?

The main symptoms of gallstones include pain in the right upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting, and jaundice. When these symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid worsening of the condition. The symptoms of gallstones can be briefly described as follows:

1. Abdominal pain: This is one of the most common symptoms of gallstones. The pain is usually concentrated in the right upper abdomen and may spread to the shoulder or back. The nature of the pain can be dull or severe cramping, and the duration can range from a few minutes to several hours. Sometimes this pain is aggravated after eating or drinking.

2. Indigestion and nausea: Many patients with gallstones report indigestion after consuming greasy food, accompanied by nausea or vomiting. This may be due to bile duct obstruction, which hinders the normal flow of bile and thus affects digestion.

3. Jaundice: When gallstones block the bile duct, the flow of bile is blocked, resulting in increased bilirubin levels in the blood, which in turn causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow. This symptom usually indicates that the stone may be located in the common bile duct and requires emergency treatment.

4. Fever and chills: If gallstones cause an infection, such as cholecystitis or cholangitis, the patient may experience systemic symptoms such as fever and chills. You need to see a doctor immediately because the infection may worsen rapidly.

Treatment for gallstones depends on the severity of your symptoms and the size and location of the stones. General treatments include:

1. Medication: For patients with small gallstones or those who are at greater risk for surgery, your doctor may prescribe oral medications, such as ursodeoxycholic acid, which can help dissolve cholesterol stones.

2. Minimally invasive surgery: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most common treatment method and is suitable for most patients with gallstones. It is a minimally invasive surgery that is performed by making a few small holes in the abdomen and has a short recovery period.

3. Non-surgical methods: such as shock wave lithotripsy, which is also suitable for certain types of gallstones. This method uses sound waves to break up the stones, making them easier to pass naturally, but its scope of application is limited.

For patients with gallstones whose symptoms are not obvious, doctors may adopt a watchful waiting approach, regularly monitoring stone changes and symptoms. In order to reduce the risk of gallstone formation, it is also important to maintain moderate exercise and healthy eating habits. If you experience symptoms such as right upper abdominal pain or indigestion in your life, you should be vigilant and seek medical attention in time to obtain a professional diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Caring for your own health starts with understanding the symptoms of gallstones.