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Gallbladder stones, or gallstones, are becoming increasingly common in India, affecting 4.3% of the general population. While some people experience severe symptoms like biliary colic, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice, others may not even realise they have gallstones until complications arise. Many remain unaware of why, how, or when these stones form, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Through this blog, an experienced gastroenterology surgeon in Bengaluru discusses everything you need to know about gallstones, including symptoms of gallstones, potential risks, and why early intervention is important.
Synopsis
What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones, also called cholelithiasis, are solid masses that accumulate in the gallbladder, a small pouch under the liver where bile is stored. Bile is a digestive juice that aids in breaking down fats. But gallstones may develop when the bile gets out of balance—because there's too much cholesterol, bilirubin, or not enough bile salts.
Gallstones can be as small as sand grains or as big as 2 cm or bigger. Most people do not show any symptoms, but when a stone obstructs bile flow, it may result in extreme abdominal pain and discomfort.
Why Are Gallstone Disease Cases Increasing?
In the last few decades, the prevalence of gallstone disease has been increasing, especially in younger adults aged 20 to 40. Contributing factors are as follows:
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Irregular diet: Missing meals or extended periods of time between meals may cause the bile to stagnate, heightening the chance of stone formation.
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Family history: If you have a parent or sibling with gallstones, you might be at greater risk.
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High-fat, low-fibre diets: Most individuals eat too many processed foods, which raises the cholesterol content in their bile and leads to stone development.
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Obesity and physical inactivity: Physical inactivity is a significant risk factor.
What Are the Symptoms of Gallstones?
One question patients often ask is, "How do I know I have gallstones?" Although some individuals are asymptomatic, others have one of these symptoms:
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Severe abdominal pain: Typically occurs in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, especially after consuming meals rich in fatty foods. This happens when gallstones obstruct the bile flow from the gallbladder.
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Pain radiating to the right shoulder or back: This may accompany abdominal pain and can be a sign of gallbladder-related issues.
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Nausea and vomiting: Gastrointestinal upset is also one of the typical symptoms.
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Intolerance to fatty foods: Patients feel uneasy after consuming fried or greasy meals.
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Indigestion and bloating: Repeated stomach upset may indicate gallbladder disease.
When Should You See a Doctor?
While mild pain may come and go, certain warning signs require immediate attention. Get emergency medical care if you have:
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Severe abdominal pain of any duration
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Fever and abdominal pain (could be a sign of infection)
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Jaundice (yellow colour of the eyes or skin) indicates that gallstones obstruct main bile duct flow.
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Dark-coloured urine and light-coloured stools are other indicators of bile duct blockage.
If ignored, these symptoms can lead to gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), cholangitis (infection of bile in the main bile duct), or even pancreatitis
How Are Gallstones Treated?
If gallstones are symptomatic, the best treatment is laparoscopic cholecystectomy or keyhole surgery. Surgeons highly advise this operation because:
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It requires only small incisions
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Recovery is quicker, with patients usually being discharged within 24 hours
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Patients can resume normal activities within a few days
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It is a commonly performed and safe procedure
Although some believe that herbal remedies or alternative medicines can dissolve gallstones, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. While certain traditional treatments may temporarily relieve symptoms, they do not eliminate the stones and may increase the risk of complications over time.
Can Gallstones Be Prevented?
Though you cannot alter risk factors such as age and genes, you may decrease your risk by altering your lifestyle:
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Eat at regular intervals: Skipping meals may lead to bile stagnation.
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Increase dietary fibre intake: Foods rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables improve digestion.
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Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and better cholesterol level control.
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Avoid crash diets: Rapid weight loss can increase bile cholesterol levels, leading to gallstones.
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Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water aids digestion and helps in maintaining the normal composition of bile.
Regular Check-ups: A Smart Approach
Since most gallstone occurrences are identified during regular ultrasound examinations, routine medical check-ups will detect the illness at an early stage. If you have a family history of gallstones, consider screening to avoid complications.
Conclusion
Gallstone disease is prevalent, but early detection and appropriate medical treatment can avoid serious complications. If you have persistent pain in your abdomen, nausea or jaundice, see a doctor immediately. The ideal treatment for symptomatic gallstones is surgery, which will provide long-term relief and a rapid recovery. Don't wait because of fear or misinformation—your health is worth it!
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