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Gallstones are hard stones that form in the gallbladder, a small sac underneath the liver.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of gallstones are upper abdominal pain. It can occur about an hour after a meal, especially if it is fatty. Often there is associated nausea and vomiting.
Jaundice/yellowing the skin, whites of the eyes
Darkening of the urine and pale stools.
Gallstones may be caused by:
A diet high in cholesterol/fat, refined carbohydrates e.g. white bread, cakes, low-fibre cereals
Use of oral contraceptive
Hereditary causes
Excessive weight loss
Diagnosis
A simple ultrasound scan is usually enough - sometimes an MRI scan is also necessary.
Treatment
If the gallstones are causing significant symptoms or complications such as jaundice or pancreatitis then an operation is needed.
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