Short answer
Many people have gallstones without symptoms and need no treatment. Stones that cause pain, usually severe pain in the upper middle or upper right tummy lasting more than 30 minutes, are treated by removing the gallbladder, most often by keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery. Fever, yellow skin or eyes, or severe constant pain need urgent care.
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- Dhruva Hospitals, Kadapa
Symptoms
- Sudden, severe pain in the middle of the upper tummy or under the ribs on the right, lasting from 30 minutes to several hours
- Pain that may spread to the back or right shoulder
- Nausea or vomiting
This pain is called biliary colic. It often comes after a heavy or fatty meal.
Go to hospital immediately if
- You have sudden, severe tummy pain, or pain spreading to the back with vomiting
- You have a high temperature or shivering
- Your skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow
These can mean an infected gallbladder, a blocked bile duct or pancreatitis. Call +91 90368 52311.
Who gets gallstones
Gallstones are more common in people over 40, women, people living with obesity, those who lose weight very quickly, people with diabetes, and those whose diet is high in fat and low in fibre.
Tests
An ultrasound scan of the abdomen is the main test. Blood tests check the liver and look for infection.
Treatment
Stones that cause no symptoms usually need no treatment. If they cause pain or complications, the usual treatment is removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). You can live normally without a gallbladder.
Laparoscopic (keyhole) cholecystectomy uses a few small cuts and a camera, so there is less pain and a quicker return home than with open surgery. Stones in the bile duct may need an endoscopic procedure (ERCP).
While you wait for surgery, a low-fat diet and painkillers can help.
At Dhruva Hospitals
Dr. M Vinay Kumar (MBBS, MS General Surgery, FMAS) performs laparoscopic surgery in modular operation theatres with laminar air flow, with ICU support after surgery if needed. Ultrasound is available in the hospital. Call +91 99599 59694 to book. OPD hours are 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Common questions
Can gallstones be dissolved with medicine or home remedies?
Home remedies do not remove gallstones. If stones are causing pain, surgery to remove the gallbladder is the main treatment.
How soon can I eat normally after gallbladder surgery?
Most people return to their usual diet gradually over a few weeks. Your surgeon will give you advice for your recovery.
Read next
Sources
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. In an emergency, call +91 90368 52311.