Gallstones are solid deposits that develop in the gallbladder when certain components of digestive secretions combine and harden. There are two main types of gallstones: cholesterol stones and pigment stones. Cholesterol stones are primarily composed of cholesterol derived from bile, while pigment stones are made up of bilirubin, a yellow compound formed during the breakdown of red blood cells. Although gallstones are generally not life-threatening, they can be extremely painful and may lead to complications such as infection. In fact, gallstones are the most common cause of emergency room admissions among individuals experiencing abdominal pain and other related symptoms.
No Visible Signs
Gallstones are often asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause any noticeable symptoms. These gallstones, referred to as “silent stones,” typically do not require any treatment and may go undetected until a doctor is investigating for another condition. However, when a gallstone becomes trapped in the bile duct and obstructs the flow of bile, it can lead to various symptoms. In such cases, it is essential to seek medical attention to address the symptoms and explore options for removing the gallstone.
Abdominal Pain
Experiencing abdominal pain is often an indication that gallstones have become lodged in a bile duct. Medical professionals refer to this as a gallstone attack, which is commonly felt in the upper-right or central part of the abdomen, just below the lower ribs. The pain usually increases in intensity and can last for up to five hours, resembling the discomfort associated with kidney stone attacks. X-rays are typically used to confirm the specific location of the stone. These episodes of pain tend to occur during the night, often following the consumption of a high-fat meal or a substantial amount of alcohol.