Gallstones
Symptoms of gallstones
Most cases of gallstones don't cause any symptoms. But ifa gallstoneblocks one of the bile ducts, it can cause sudden, severe abdominal pain, known as biliary colic.
Other symptoms may developif the blockage is more severe ordevelops in another part of the digestive system.
Abdominal pain (biliary colic)
Gallstonescan causesudden, severe abdominal pain that usually lasts one to five hours(although it can sometimes last just a few minutes).
The pain can be felt:
- in the centre of your abdomen (tummy)
- just under the ribs on your right-hand side it may spread from hereto your side or shoulder blade
The pain is constant and isn't relieved when you go to the toilet, pass wind or are sick.It's sometimes triggered by eating fatty foods, butmay occur at any time of dayand it may wake you up during the night.
Biliary colic doesn't happen often. After an episode of pain, it may be several weeks or months before you experience another episode.
Some people also have periods where they sweat excessively and feel sick or vomit.
Whengallstones cause episodes of biliary colic, it is known as 'uncomplicated gallstone disease'.
Other symptoms
In a small number of people, gallstones can cause more serious problems if they obstruct the flow of bile for longer periods or move into other organs (such as the pancreas or small bowel).
If this happens,youmay develop:
- a high temperature of 38C (100.4F) or above
- more persistent pain
- a rapid heartbeat
- yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes ( Jaundice )
- itchy skin
- diarrhoea
- chills or shivering attacks
- confusion
- a loss of appetite
Doctors refer to this more severe condition as 'complicated gallstone disease'.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016
Introduction
Gallstones are small stones, usually made of cholesterol, that form in the gallbladder. In most cases they do not cause any symptoms and do not need to be treated.
Symptoms of gallstones
The most common symptom of gallstones is sudden, severe abdominal pain, known as biliary colic.
Causes of gallstones
Gallstones are thought to be caused by an imbalance in the chemical make-up of bile inside the gallbladder. Bile is a liquid produced by the liver to aid digestion
Diagnosing gallstones
Gallstones are often discovered during tests for a different condition, as they often don't cause any symptoms.
Treating gallstones
The treatment plan for gallbladder conditions will depend on how the symptoms are affecting your daily life.
Complications of gallstones
In a small number of people with gallstones, serious problems can develop if the gallstones cause a severe blockage or move into another part of the digestive system.
Preventing gallstones
Changes to your diet and losing weight (if you are overweight) may help prevent gallstones.
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