AnnaMaria
Gallstones—those tiny but troublesome solid formations in your gallbladder—can range in size from a grain of sand to a pebble large enough to cause intense pain. And while not all of them make their presence known, the ones that block bile flow tend to demand attention, fast.
Most often affecting women, especially those with high-fat diets or a sedentary lifestyle, gallstones are surprisingly common. Knowing what causes them and how to recognize the symptoms can make all the difference in preventing serious complications.
What Exactly Are Gallstones?
Your gallbladder, located just beneath your liver, stores bile—a fluid that helps break down fats. Gallstones form when bile components like cholesterol or bilirubin become imbalanced and harden into small deposits.
There are two primary types:
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Cholesterol stones: The most common, formed from excess cholesterol.
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Pigmented stones: Darker in color, caused by too much bilirubin.
Both types can block bile ducts, leading to inflammation and pain—a condition known as cholelithiasis.
Warning Signs to Watch For
According to the Mayo Clinic, gallstones often go unnoticed until they trigger a blockage. When they do, symptoms may include:
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Sharp pain in the upper right abdomen
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Discomfort just below the breastbone
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Pain radiating to the right shoulder or between the shoulder blades
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Nausea and vomiting
These attacks can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. In more serious cases, infection or inflammation may develop, requiring urgent care.
What Increases Your Risk?
Several factors can raise the likelihood of developing gallstones, including:
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Diets high in fat and low in fiber
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Obesity, high cholesterol, or diabetes
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Lack of physical activity
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Smoking or long-term contraceptive use
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Elevated estrogen levels
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Family history of gallstones
Adopting healthier habits, like balanced meals and regular exercise, can go a long way in prevention.
What Are the Treatment Options?
If gallstones don’t cause symptoms, no treatment may be needed. But when they block the bile ducts, surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is often the best route.
Less invasive treatments—like medications that help dissolve stones—do exist, but they’re not always effective and usually reserved for those who can’t undergo surgery.
When It’s Time to Seek Help
Don’t ignore sudden, sharp abdominal pain—especially if it’s paired with nausea, fever, or chills. These could indicate a blocked duct or infection, both of which need medical attention immediately.
Simple changes like eating more fibre, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active can make a real difference in preventing gallstones.
And just like that…
