Gallstones
Hardened deposits in the gallbladder
Overview
Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that form in the gallbladder. They can range from tiny grains to golf ball-sized stones and may cause no symptoms or severe pain requiring treatment.
Symptoms
- Sudden intense pain in upper right abdomen
- Back pain between shoulder blades
- Pain in right shoulder
- Nausea and vomiting
- Indigestion after fatty meals
Causes & Risk Factors
- Excess cholesterol in bile
- Excess bilirubin
- Concentrated bile from incomplete emptying
- Obesity and rapid weight loss
Treatment Options
- Watchful waiting for asymptomatic stones
- Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)
- Medications to dissolve stones
- ERCP for bile duct stones
When to Seek Help
Seek immediate care for intense abdominal pain lasting more than a few hours, fever with chills, or yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice).
Expert Consultation
Get personalized diagnosis and treatment from Dr. Ashwini Kumar Banerjee, with over 20 years of experience in gastroenterology.
Book Appointment