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Gallbladder Stones: Symptoms, Causes, and When Surgery Is Needed

Nowadays, stomach and digestion problems are very common. One such problem is gallbladder stones. Many people have them and don’t even know it, while others suddenly get severe stomach pain.

Knowing the signs early can save you from serious trouble later. Let’s understand gallbladder stones in simple words.


What Are Gallbladder Stones?

Gallbladder stones, also called gallstones, are small hard stones that form inside a small pouch in your body called the gallbladder, which sits below your liver.

The gallbladder stores a digestive juice called bile. When this juice becomes too thick, stones can form — just like sugar crystals in thick syrup.




Common Symptoms of Gallbladder Stones

Some people feel nothing at all. But when stones cause trouble, you may notice:

1. Pain on the Right Side of the Upper Stomach

Sudden strong pain, often after eating oily or fried food.

2. Pain in Back or Right Shoulder

The pain may move to your back or shoulder.

3. Feeling Sick or Vomiting

You may feel like throwing up after meals.

4. Gas, Bloating, or Indigestion

Stomach feels heavy, tight, or uncomfortable.

5. Fever or Yellow Eyes/Skin

This can mean infection and is serious.


What Causes Gallbladder Stones?

Gallstones form when bile juice has too much fat-like material or when the gallbladder doesn’t empty properly.

Common reasons:

  • Being overweight

  • Eating too much oily or junk food

  • Losing weight very fast

  • Pregnancy

  • Diabetes

  • Family history

  • Sitting too much, no exercise

If your lifestyle is messy, don’t be shocked when your stomach rebels.


Who Is More Likely to Get Gallstones?

You are at higher risk if you:

  • Are overweight

  • Eat fried food often

  • Are above 40 years

  • Are a woman

  • Have gallstones in the family

  • Have diabetes

Regular checkups can catch stones before they cause pain.


How Are Gallstones Found?

Doctors usually do:

  • Ultrasound – a simple scan of your stomach

  • Blood tests – to check infection or liver problems

These tests are painless and quick.




When Is Surgery Needed?

Not everyone with gallstones needs surgery. But doctors suggest removing the gallbladder when:

  • You get pain again and again

  • Stones block the bile pipe

  • Infection or swelling happens

  • Stones cause yellowing of eyes/skin

  • Pancreas gets affected

Why surgery?
Medicines don’t remove stones properly. Surgery is the best permanent solution.

Most surgeries today are done by keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery, which means:

  • Very small cuts

  • Less pain

  • Faster recovery

  • You can go home in 1–2 days


Can Gallstones Be Prevented?

You can lower your risk by:

  • Keeping weight under control

  • Avoiding crash dieting

  • Eating fruits, vegetables, and fiber

  • Cutting down oily and fried food

  • Walking or exercising daily

  • Drinking enough water

Simple habits save you from big problems.


When Should You See a Doctor?

See a doctor if you:

  • Have repeated stomach pain

  • Feel sick after eating

  • Get fever with pain

  • Notice yellow eyes or skin

  • Already know you have gallstones

Don’t play hero. Get it checked.


Your Partner in Care: Link Hospital, Gwalior

At Link Hospital, Gwalior, we provide complete care for gallbladder stone problems, including modern keyhole surgery that helps you recover faster with less pain.

Our experienced doctors and advanced facilities ensure safe treatment and personal care for every patient.


Take Care of Your Stomach Health Today

Gallbladder stones may stay quiet for years, but when they cause pain, it can be unbearable. Ignoring it can lead to infection and serious problems.

📞 Book your consultation at Link Hospital, Gwalior today and protect your digestive health.