Gallstones and gallbladder symptoms
The gallbladder stores bile made by the liver. Gallstones can form inside it and may cause symptoms when they block the flow of bile.
A typical gallbladder attack can cause pain in the upper right or upper middle abdomen, sometimes after eating. Pain may spread to the back or right shoulder. Gallstones can also lead to inflammation, infection, pancreatitis, or blockage of the main bile duct.
How symptoms are evaluated
Evaluation may include a medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging such as an ultrasound. The pattern of symptoms matters because other conditions can cause similar discomfort.
Symptoms matter
The presence of gallstones alone does not always mean surgery is needed. Treatment decisions consider whether the stones are causing symptoms or complications.
Additional testing
If a stone in the main bile duct is suspected, additional imaging or an endoscopic procedure may be considered.
Treatment and surgery
The usual operation for symptomatic gallstones is cholecystectomy—removal of the gallbladder. It is commonly performed with laparoscopic or robotic-assisted techniques through small incisions. An open operation may sometimes be necessary.
You can live without a gallbladder. After removal, bile flows directly from the liver into the small intestine. As with any operation, risks can include bleeding, infection, anesthesia problems, injury to nearby structures or the bile duct, bile leakage, blood clots, or need for additional treatment.
Seek prompt care
Seek urgent medical evaluation for severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever or chills, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, repeated vomiting, fainting, or confusion.
Preparing and recovering
Follow the specific instructions you receive about eating, drinking, medicines, and arrival time. Recovery varies with the approach, the severity of gallbladder disease, and overall health. Your instructions will cover wound care, diet, activity, pain control, and follow-up.
Some people notice temporary changes in bowel habits after gallbladder removal. Contact the surgical team for worsening pain, fever, persistent vomiting, jaundice, breathing problems, or increasing redness or drainage.
Questions to bring to your visit
- Are gallstones the likely cause of my symptoms?
- Do I need additional tests?
- What approach do you recommend?
- What are the important risks in my case?
- What should I expect after surgery?
- Which symptoms require urgent attention?
Educational sources
NIDDK: Treatment for Gallstones
This page provides general education and does not replace individualized advice from your surgeon.