- Home
- /
- Speciality
- /
- Gallbladder Stones
Overview
Have you ever experienced a sudden, sharp pain in your abdomen? If so, then it might be a symptom of gallstones. Millions of people experience gallstones, but they often don't get diagnosed until the pain becomes unbearable. So, what exactly causes these stones, why are they formed, and most importantly, what can you do to prevent future complications?
What are gallbladder stones?
Gallbladder stones (cholelithiasis) are called gallstones. Gallbladder stones are the hardened deposits of digestive fluid formed in your gallbladder. Your gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ placed on the right side of your abdomen, just below your liver. It stores a digestive fluid called bile. Bile contains substances that help dissolve cholesterol released by your liver. But if your liver produces more cholesterol than your bile can dissolve, the excess cholesterol may form into a hardened form. Eventually, it can turn into stones. Gallstones can vary in size, from tiny grains of sand to as large as a golf ball. If left untreated, they can lead to severe health issues.What are the types of gallbladder stones?
Primary, there are two types of gallstones: Cholesterol Stones- It is the most common gallbladder stone in adults.
- They appear dark brown and black in colour.
- They form when your bile contains enough bilirubin.
What are the causes of gallbladder stones?
The exact cause of gallstone formation has yet to be clear. However, doctors believe that gallstones may develop when-
There is excess cholesterol in your bile
-
There is excess bilirubin in your bile
-
Your gallbladder doesn't empty properly
Symptoms of gallbladder stones
Gallstones may cause no symptoms unless they get stuck and create a blockage. This blockage causes symptoms, which include:- Sudden pain in the upper abdomen.
How are gallbladder stones diagnosed?
If you experience symptoms of gallbladder stones, contact your doctor. Your doctor will perform various tests and procedures to diagnose gallstones and their complications, which include:- Abdominal Ultrasound: This is the most common test used to observe the present condition of gallstones. In this procedure, a device called a transducer is used. It moves back and forth across your stomach. The transducer sends signals to a computer to create images of the structures in your abdomen.
Treatment options for gallbladder stones
If your gallstones don't cause symptoms, you won't need treatment. Based on your gallstone symptoms and diagnostic test results, your doctor will determine whether treatment is needed. Your doctor may recommend being alert for symptoms of gallstone complications, such as intensifying pain in your upper right abdomen. If gallstone signs and symptoms occur in the future, you can have treatment.Gallbladder Stones: Prevention
You can reduce your risk of gallstones if you:- Don't skip meals: Try to eat your meal at a regular time each day. Skipping meals or fasting may raise the chance of having gallstones.
- Lose weight slowly: If you're overweight and want to reduce it, go slow. Rapid weight loss may increase the risk of gallstones. You should reduce 1 or 2 pounds (about 0.5 to 1 kilogram) a week.
- Eat more high-fibre foods: Eat fibre-rich foods. You can include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity and being overweight may increase the risk of gallstones. Work to achieve a healthy weight by reducing the number of calories you eat in a day. You can increase your physical activity. Once you achieve a healthy weight, work to maintain that weight by continuing your healthy diet and continuing to exercise.
Meet Our Top Gastroenterologist

Be a super-mom, stay informed about pregnancy health updates with our weekly newsletter
[contact-form-7 id=”16292″ title=”Subscribe”]
FAQs Around Gallbladder Stone
What size of gallbladder stones need surgery?
Surgery is usually needed for gallbladder stones larger than 2-3 centimetres or if they cause serious symptoms.
How are gallbladder stones formed?
Gallbladder stones form when bile contains too much cholesterol or bilirubin, or the gallbladder doesn’t empty properly. They can lead to the formation of cholesterol stones or pigment stones.
How do I prevent gallbladder stones?
To prevent gallbladder stones, you can:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat a balanced diet (high in fibre and healthy fats).
- Stay active (exercise regularly).
- Stay hydrated (drink plenty of water).
- These steps can help reduce your risk.
Can gallbladder stones be removed without surgery?
Yes, gallbladder stones can sometimes be treated without surgery using medications or non-surgical procedures like shock wave lithotripsy, but surgery is often the most effective option.
Is gallbladder stone dangerous?
Yes, gallbladder stones can be dangerous if they cause complications like inflammation, infection, or blockage of bile ducts.