Gallstones (gallbladder attack)

Overview

Many gallstones cause no symptoms.

A blocked duct can cause infection or pancreatitis.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Pain in the upper right belly after meals
• Upper right belly pain (under the right ribs)
• Pain after fatty or large meals

Less common

• Nausea
• Back or shoulder pain

When to get medical care

Causes

Cholesterol in bile.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Women
• Over 40
• Overweight
• Fast weight loss

Possible complications

• Pancreatitis

Diagnosis

A scan finds stones.

The exam

Belly exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Ultrasound:
• Blood tests:

Treatment

Avoid triggers.

Self-care

• Eat smaller, lower-fat meals

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Surgery removes the gallbladder.

Prevention

To lower risk:

• Lose weight slowly

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor) or a surgeon.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Surgery cures it.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Gallstones (gallbladder attack)