Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Gallstones can vary in size, ranging from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball, and they may cause no symptoms or significant pain if they block the flow of bile.

Types of Gallstones

• Cholesterol Gallstones: The most common type, made mostly of hardened cholesterol. These form when there is too much cholesterol in the bile or the gallbladder does not empty effectively.
• Pigment Gallstones: These are smaller, darker stones that form due to excess bilirubin in the bile. Pigment stones are more commonly associated with certain medical conditions, such as liver cirrhosis, biliary tract infections, or blood disorders.

Causes of Gallstones

• High Cholesterol in Bile: When the liver secretes more cholesterol than bile can dissolve, excess cholesterol may form into crystals and eventually stones.
• Biliary Stasis: When the gallbladder doesn’t empty completely or often enough, bile may become concentrated, leading to stone formation.
• High Bilirubin Levels: Certain conditions cause excess bilirubin, contributing to pigment gallstones.
• Obesity: Linked to increased cholesterol levels in bile, making gallstone formation more likely.
• Diet: Diets high in fat and cholesterol and low in fiber can increase the risk.

Symptoms of Gallstones

• Pain in the Upper Right Abdomen: Known as biliary colic, the pain can be severe and may radiate to the back or right shoulder blade.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Often accompany the pain.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes, if a stone blocks the bile duct.
• Fever and Chills: Signs of an infection, especially if accompanied by pain.
• Changes in Stool or Urine: Dark urine and clay-colored stools can indicate a bile duct obstruction.