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Gallstones

Hard masses of cholesterol or bilirubin crystals that accumulate in the gallbladder.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Gallstones?

Gallstones (cholelithiasis) are hard structures formed by the precipitation and crystallization of bile components — mainly cholesterol or bilirubin — in the gallbladder. In Western societies, gallstones are found in about 10-15% of the adult population; most people remain asymptomatic for life.

When a stone blocks the bile duct, severe biliary colic pain begins in the right upper quadrant after a fatty meal. If a stone causes inflammation of the gallbladder, acute cholecystitis develops; if it blocks the bile ducts, cholestatic jaundice and cholangitis can develop.

Diagnosis is usually made by abdominal ultrasound. While asymptomatic stones generally do not require treatment, laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder surgery) is the standard treatment in symptomatic cases.

Symptoms

Severe cramping pain in right upper abdomen or epigastrium (biliary colic)
Pain radiating to the back or right shoulder
Nausea and vomiting starting after a fatty meal
Jaundice, dark urine and light-colored stool (when bile ducts are blocked)
Fever and chills (in cholecystitis or cholangitis)
Bloating and indigestion
Asymptomatic stones may present with no symptoms at all

Risk Factors

Female sex (4F rule: Female, Fat, Forty, Fertile)
Obesity and rapid weight loss
Being over 40 years old
Family history
Diabetes
High cholesterol diet
Long-term total parenteral nutrition

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Severe and persistent pain in the right upper quadrant
  • If fever and chills are seen together
  • If jaundice, dark urine or light-colored stool begins
  • If you cannot eat because of nausea and vomiting
  • If a stone has been reported on ultrasound examination

Treatment Methods

01
Asymptomatic stones: follow-up is usually sufficient
02
Symptomatic gallstones: laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gold standard)
03
Acute cholecystitis: antibiotic therapy and elective or emergency cholecystectomy
04
ERCP: to remove stones that have fallen into the bile duct
05
Ursodeoxycholic acid: in selected patients unsuitable for surgery
06
Low-fat diet (helps reduce symptoms)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.