Gallstones are small, pebble-like substances that form inside the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ situated on the right side of the abdomen, just below the liver.

It’s responsible for storing bile, a substance that helps in the digestion of fats. When the bile hardens into stones, they can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of gallstones:.

1. Abdominal pain

One of the most noticeable symptoms of gallstones is abdominal pain. The pain typically occurs in the upper right side of the abdomen, just below the rib cage, and can last for several hours. The pain may be sudden and intense, or it may come and go.

It may also be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

2. Back pain

In some cases, gallstones can cause back pain. The pain may be dull and achy or sharp and stabbing. It may be located in the upper back or between the shoulder blades.

3. Jaundice

Jaundice is a condition that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes. It occurs when the bile ducts in the liver become blocked, which can happen when gallstones migrate from the gallbladder into the ducts.

Other symptoms of jaundice include dark urine and pale stools.

4. Fever

If you have gallstones, you may experience a fever. This is usually a sign that there is an infection in the bile ducts, which can occur when gallstones block the flow of bile.

5. Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of gallstones. They may be accompanied by a loss of appetite and general feelings of sickness. These symptoms are usually more severe after eating a meal that contains fats.

6. Indigestion

Some people with gallstones may experience indigestion, gas, and bloating. These symptoms may occur after eating a meal that contains fats.

7. Chest pain

In some cases, gallstones can cause chest pain. This is usually a sharp, stabbing pain that occurs in the upper chest and can radiate to the back or shoulders.

8. Shoulder pain

Like chest pain, gallstones can also cause shoulder pain. The pain may be dull and achy or sharp and stabbing. It may occur on the right or left side of the body.

9. Fatigue

Some people with gallstones may experience fatigue and weakness. These symptoms may be accompanied by a general feeling of being unwell.

10. Unexplained weight loss

Unexplained weight loss is another possible symptom of gallstones. It may occur because the body is unable to digest fats properly, which can lead to a decrease in appetite and weight loss.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor. They can evaluate your symptoms and order tests to determine if you have gallstones.

Some of the tests that may be used to diagnose gallstones include ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI.

Conclusion

Gallstones can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to see a doctor.

With early diagnosis and treatment, gallstones can be managed effectively, and you can go back to living a healthy, active life.