Gallbladder problems often go unnoticed; know the warning signs of gallstones

31 Oct 2026, 10:26 by Anustupa Mishra · KalingaTV

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Although small in size, it plays an important role in digestion by storing bile, a fluid produced by the liver that helps the body digest fats.

However, the formation of hard deposits known as gallstones can affect its functioning and sometimes lead to serious health complications.

Gallstones usually develop when substances in bile, particularly cholesterol or bilirubin, become imbalanced.

They can vary in size, ranging from tiny particles to stones as large as a golf ball. According to the US National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), many people have gallstones without experiencing any symptoms. These are commonly known as silent gallstones.

What are the warning signs?

When a gallstone blocks a bile duct, it can trigger a gallbladder attack. Some common symptoms include:

Sudden or persistent pain in the upper-right side of the abdomen, sometimes spreading to the back or right shoulder.
Pain that may last from 30 minutes to several hours.
Nausea and vomiting, particularly after a heavy meal.
Fever or chills in cases involving inflammation or infection.
Yellowing of the skin or eyes, which may indicate jaundice.

Medical experts warn that severe abdominal pain, fever, persistent vomiting or jaundice should not be ignored, as these may indicate complications requiring urgent medical attention.

Who may be at greater risk?

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing gallstones. These include obesity, a family history of gallstones, diabetes, a diet low in fibre and high in refined carbohydrates, and rapid weight loss. Women and people above the age of 40 may also have a higher risk. However, gallstones can develop in people outside these groups as well.

Can lifestyle changes help?

A healthy lifestyle may help reduce the risk of gallstone formation. Health experts recommend:

Including fibre-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains in daily meals.
Limiting excessive sugar, refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats.
Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced eating and regular physical activity.
Avoiding crash diets and rapid weight loss.
Following regular meal timings instead of frequently skipping meals.

These measures may help lower the risk, but they cannot dissolve gallstones that have already formed.

How are gallstones treated?

Gallstones are generally diagnosed through an ultrasound scan and, when required, blood tests. People with silent gallstones may not need immediate treatment.

However, when stones cause repeated pain or complications, doctors may recommend surgery to remove the gallbladder, a procedure known as cholecystectomy.

The gallbladder is not an essential organ, and most people can live normally after its removal.

Doctors advise against ignoring recurring abdominal pain or relying on home remedies to remove gallstones. Early medical evaluation can help identify the problem and prevent complications.

Gallbladder problems often go unnoticed; know the warning signs of gallstones

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