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Educational use only: Symptom.Today is an educational tool and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results are not a substitute for professional medical care. If symptoms are severe, worsening, or concerning, seek medical attention immediately. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
Digestive SystemModerate

Gallstones

Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in your gallbladder, ranging in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. While many people have them without knowing, they can cause intense pain if they block a bile duct.

Severity
Moderate
System
Digestive system
Progression
Gradual
Treatable
Yes — usually with self-care or routine treatment
Common age
All ages
Duration
Acute (days–weeks)
Contagious
No
Emergency risk
High
Digestive system
Affected: Right upper abdominal pain
Affected area: Digestive system

Overview

Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in your gallbladder, ranging in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. While many people have them without knowing, they can cause intense pain if they block a bile duct.

Symptoms

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Primary symptoms
Right upper abdominal painOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Right upper abdominal pain”NauseaOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Nausea”VomitingOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Vomiting”Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes)Open analyzer pre-filled with “Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes)”Back painOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Back pain”

Causes

  • •High levels of cholesterol in bile
  • •Excess bilirubin in bile
  • •Gallbladder failing to empty properly

Risk factors

  • •Being female
  • •Being age 40 or older
  • •Weight issues or obesity
  • •Sedentary lifestyle
  • •A diet high in fat and cholesterol

How it progresses

3 stages
  1. Onset
    Symptoms appear, often triggered by a known cause.
    Often missed
  2. Active phase
    Symptoms peak; self-care or short treatment usually helps.
  3. Resolution
    Symptoms ease over days to weeks with proper care.

How it's diagnosed

  • •Abdominal ultrasound
  • •Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
  • •Blood tests for infection or jaundice
  • •CT scan or MRI (MRCP)

Treatment options

General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.

Medical
  • •Watchful waiting for asymptomatic stones
  • •Gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy)
  • •Medications to dissolve stones
  • •Endoscopic procedures to clear duct blockages
Home care
  • •Eating a low-fat diet
  • •Maintaining a healthy weight
  • •Avoiding rapid weight loss diets
  • •Staying hydrated

Complications

  • •Dehydration
  • •Weight loss
  • •Nutrient deficiency
  • •Recurrence of gallstones

Prevention

  • •Eat a balanced, fiber-rich diet
  • •Stay hydrated
  • •Limit alcohol and processed food

When to seek help

Urgent — same-day care
  • •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
  • •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
  • •New or worsening symptoms appear
  • •Concerning changes related to gallstones
🚨 Emergency — call now
  • High fever with chills
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Severe abdominal pain that prevents sitting still

In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.

Real-world questions

  • ›Can Gallstones cause weight loss?
  • ›Can Gallstones cause headaches?
  • ›Is Gallstones reversible?
  • ›How quickly does Gallstones progress?
  • ›Is Gallstones hereditary?

Compare conditions

Gallstones vs HepatitisGallstones vs PancreatitisGallstones vs Food Poisoning

Explore related symptoms

Abdominal painRight lower abdominal painRight upper abdominal painUpper stomach painNauseaVomitingVomiting bloodDiarrhea

Frequently asked questions

What causes Gallstones?

Possible causes of Gallstones include High levels of cholesterol in bile, Excess bilirubin in bile, Gallbladder failing to empty properly.

Is Gallstones dangerous?

Gallstones is generally moderate, but severity can vary. Seek care if symptoms are severe or persistent.

How long does Gallstones last?

Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.

Can Gallstones go away on its own?

Some milder cases may improve with rest and self-care. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.

When should I see a doctor about Gallstones?

Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.

Sources

Information based on general medical references such as:

CDCNHSWHOMedlinePlus

Last reviewed: May 2026

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Educational use only: Symptom.Today is an educational tool and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results are not a substitute for professional medical care. If symptoms are severe, worsening, or concerning, seek medical attention immediately. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.