Gallstones

What are gallstones?

Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, and releases it into the small intestine to aid the digestion of fats.

What are the risk factors for gallstones?

  • Cholesterol imbalance

  • Obesity

  • Rapid weight loss

  • Pregnancy

  • Older age

  • Women are more likely than men to develop gallstones

What problems can it cause?

Many people with gallstones may not experience any symptoms. However, if a gallstone becomes lodged in a duct and causes a blockage, it can lead to symptoms such as:

  • Sudden intense pain in the upper right abdomen or centre of abdomen – biliary colic

  • Pain in the right shoulder

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Fever or chills if there is an infection in the gallbladder – cholecystitis

  • Small gallstones can also obstruct the common bile duct and result in cholangitis or pancreatitis

It is important to note that gallstones can be asymptomatic, and their presence may only be discovered incidentally during medical imaging for another condition. 

What is the treatment for gallstones?

Treatment of gallstones depends on whether they are causing symptoms and complications. Here are the main approaches to treatment of gallstones: 

  1. Observation (Watchful Waiting)

    If gallstones are discovered incidentally during imaging studies and are not causing symptoms, the healthcare provider may recommend monitoring without immediate intervention. Many people with gallstones never develop symptoms, and they may not require treatment.

  2. Lifestyle modifications

    For individuals with cholesterol gallstones, lifestyle changes may help prevent the formation of new stones and reduce symptoms by eating healthy, well-balanced diet with a focus on low-fat foods.

  3. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

    ERCP is a procedure that involves using an endoscope to locate and remove gallstones that have moved into the common bile duct.

    A cholecystectomy is usually required to remove all the stones in the gallbladder.

  4. Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder removal)

    The most common definitive treatment for symptomatic gallstones is surgical removal of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a not an essential organ, and its removal usually does not affect digestion significantly.

    Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive approach involving small incisions and a camera, resulting in shorter recovery times.