Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid (bile) that form in your gallbladder. They range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Many people have "silent" gallstones that never cause symptoms, but if a stone blocks a bile duct, it can trigger intense pain and complications.
When gallstones become symptomatic, you may experience:
Gallstones form when changes in bile composition or gallbladder function promote crystallization. Common risk factors include:
With a focus on patient-centered care and comprehensive digestive health solutions, GastroDoxs provides expert diagnostics and effective treatment for Crohn’s Disease. Our approach is rooted in compassionate, personalized care-tailoring medication, nutrition, and lifestyle plans to your unique needs. Book an appointment today with our Jersey Village specialists and take the first step toward lasting relief and improved quality of life.
We've successfully treated more than 1k patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Early signs of gallstones often include upper abdominal pain, especially after eating fatty or greasy foods. You may also experience bloating, nausea, or a feeling of fullness.
Some small gallstones may pass without causing symptoms. However, recurring pain or digestive issues often require medical treatment or surgery.
Gallstones are most commonly diagnosed using an abdominal ultrasound, which is non-invasive and highly effective. In some cases, CT scans or MRCP may be used for further evaluation.
Yes, untreated gallstones can lead to serious complications like gallbladder infection (cholecystitis), pancreatitis, or bile duct obstruction. Timely diagnosis and treatment are important.
Yes. Many people live healthy lives without a gallbladder. The liver continues to produce bile, which flows directly into the intestines to aid digestion.
No, not always. If gallstones are "silent" and not causing symptoms, they may simply be monitored. However, symptomatic gallstones often require surgery.
Fatty, fried, and highly processed foods can trigger gallstone attacks. Meals rich in saturated fats are especially known to provoke symptoms.
Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours. It is minimally invasive, and most patients can return home the same day.
Post-surgery care is generally simple. Patients may need to eat smaller, low-fat meals initially. Most return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks.
If you have recurring abdominal pain, nausea, or digestive issues after eating, it's time to consult a gallstone specialist for diagnosis and personalized care.
