Here are the warning signs and the treatments you shouldn’t ignore

Gallstones are one of the most common digestive conditions worldwide, affecting an estimated 8–10% of the population — and many people don’t even realize they have them until symptoms suddenly appear.

The gallbladder plays a quiet but important role.
It stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps break down fats. When bile components become unbalanced, they can harden and form gallstones. These stones may stay silent for years or trigger painful, sometimes dangerous, complications.

One of the biggest risks with gallstones is how unpredictable they are.
Some people live with gallstones without any symptoms. Others experience sudden, intense pain that sends them straight to the emergency room. There’s often no gradual warning.

Common symptoms of gallstones include:
– Sharp pain in the upper right abdomen or center of the stomach
– Pain that radiates to the right shoulder or back
– Nausea and vomiting, especially after fatty meals
– Bloating, indigestion, or persistent discomfort
– Fever or chills if infection develops
– Yellowing of the skin or eyes if bile ducts are blocked

Pain episodes, known as gallbladder attacks, can last from minutes to hours.
They often occur after eating heavy or fatty foods, when the gallbladder contracts to release bile but is blocked by stones.

Ignoring symptoms can lead to serious complications.
Untreated gallstones can cause gallbladder inflammation, bile duct obstruction, pancreatitis, or infection — conditions that may require urgent medical care.

Diagnosis is usually straightforward.
Ultrasound is the most common and reliable method to detect gallstones. Blood tests may also be used to check for infection or liver involvement.

Treatment depends on symptoms, not just the presence of stones.

If gallstones aren’t causing problems, doctors may recommend monitoring only. But once symptoms appear, treatment is often necessary.

The most effective treatment is gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy).