Gallstones
Gallstones are small stones that form in the gallbladder, the pouch under the liver that stores bile. Many people have gallstones and never know. When a stone blocks the outlet of the gallbladder it causes biliary colic, a severe pain in the upper right or middle of the abdomen, often after a heavy or fatty meal. People with sickle cell disease are particularly prone to gallstones. Repeated attacks, or complications such as infection, jaundice or pancreatitis, are treated by removing the gallbladder.
Find a General Surgery SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Severe pain in the upper right or upper middle abdomen, lasting from minutes to several hours
- Pain that spreads to the right shoulder or back
- Pain after fatty or heavy meals, often at night
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and indigestion
- Fever with pain, or yellowing of the eyes and skin (complications)
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you have had an attack of upper abdominal pain, so an ultrasound scan can be done. Go to an emergency department the same day if the pain lasts more than a few hours, or comes with fever and shivering, yellow eyes or skin, dark urine and pale stools, or severe pain going through to the back. These are signs of an infected gallbladder, a stone in the bile duct, or pancreatitis.
Treatment options
- Ultrasound scan of the abdomen to confirm stones
- Pain relief and a lower-fat diet while waiting for treatment
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (keyhole gallbladder removal), the standard treatment for stones that cause symptoms
- ERCP to remove a stone stuck in the bile duct
- Antibiotics and hospital care for an infected gallbladder
- No treatment, in most people, for silent gallstones found by chance
What it costs on Mezo
Published cash prices for the operations used to treat this condition. Your own quote follows an examination.
Common Questions
Can I live without a gallbladder?
Yes. Bile still flows from the liver into the bowel. Most people eat normally afterwards. A few notice looser stools after fatty meals for some weeks.
Can gallstones be dissolved with herbs or a 'liver flush'?
No. Liver and gallbladder flushes using oil and juice do not remove gallstones; the lumps passed afterwards are formed from the oil itself. Tablets that dissolve stones work only for some small stones, slowly, and the stones often return.
Do I need surgery if my gallstones are not causing pain?
Usually not. Gallstones found by chance on a scan, without symptoms, are generally left alone. Your surgeon will advise if you are in a group at higher risk of complications.
Why do people with sickle cell disease get gallstones?
The rapid breakdown of red blood cells produces extra bilirubin, which forms pigment stones. When these stones cause symptoms, removing the gallbladder is often advised, with careful planning around the operation.
Need Help?
Find a verified general surgery specialist near you.
General Surgery in Lagos →General Surgery in Abuja →General Surgery in Port Harcourt →General Surgery in Jos →General Surgery in Ibadan →Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.