What are Gallstones?

Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid (bile) that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver. These stones can vary in size and number.

Types of Gallstones

1. Cholesterol Gallstones

   • Mostly made of cholesterol, usually yellow-green.

   • Most common type in the Western world.

2. Pigment Gallstones

   • Made of excess bilirubin (a substance produced from red blood cell breakdown).

   • Usually dark brown or black.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Excess cholesterol in bile

• Excess bilirubin in bile

• Incomplete emptying of the gallbladder

• Obesity

• Pregnancy

• Diabetes

• Certain blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell anemia)

• Rapid weight loss or fasting

• Family history of gallstones

• Age and gender (more common in women and older adults)

Symptoms

Many people with gallstones have no symptoms (called “silent” gallstones). When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Sudden and intense pain in the upper right abdomen or center abdomen (called a gallstone attack or biliary colic)

• Pain that can radiate to the back or right shoulder blade

• Nausea or vomiting

• Indigestion, bloating, or gas after eating fatty foods

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) if a gallstone blocks the bile duct

• Fever and chills if infection develops (cholecystitis)

Diagnosis

• Ultrasound (most common and effective)

• CT scan

• MRI (MRCP for bile ducts)

• Blood tests (to check for infection, inflammation, or blockage)

Treatment

Conservative (if asymptomatic or mild symptoms)

• Observation and lifestyle changes (diet low in fat)

• Weight management

Medical/Surgical Treatments

• Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal surgery) – most common treatment, done laparoscopically

• Medications to dissolve cholesterol stones (rarely used, takes a long time)

• Endoscopic removal of stones from bile ducts if blockage occurs (ERCP procedure)

Prevention Tips

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Avoid rapid weight loss

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber

• Regular physical activity

• Limit intake of fatty and cholesterol-rich foods

Summary

Gallstones are solid particles formed in the gallbladder, which can cause pain and complications if they block bile flow. Most symptomatic gallstones are treated surgically, while silent stones may not require treatment. Lifestyle changes can reduce the risk.