What are gallstones?

Gallstones, also called gall stones or gall bladder stones (gallbladder stones), are hardened deposits, made of cholesterol or bilirubin, that form inside the gallbladder — a small organ that stores bile used for digesting fat.

Symptoms

Many people with gallstones have no symptoms at all and never know they have them. When symptoms do occur, they typically include sudden pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after a fatty meal, sometimes with nausea.

Causes and risk factors

  • Obesity
  • Rapid weight loss
  • Certain diets
  • Family history
  • Being female and over 40 (statistically more common, though gallstones can affect anyone)

How are gallstones diagnosed?

An ultrasound is the main test used to detect gallstones — it is quick, painless, and highly effective at spotting them.

Treatment

If gallstones cause no symptoms, they often don't need treatment and may simply be monitored. If they cause pain or complications, treatment may involve dietary changes or, in some cases, surgical removal of the gallbladder, which would involve a referral to a surgeon. If a stone moves into and blocks the bile duct, an ERCP can be used to remove it.

Frequently asked questions

No. Gallstones without symptoms often don't need any treatment and are simply monitored.

An ultrasound is the main and most effective way to detect gallstones.

This can cause jaundice and needs prompt treatment, often with an ERCP to remove the stone from the duct.