Guide to Gallbladder Stones: Types, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located in the upper right side of the abdomen, below the liver. Gallbladder stores the yellow colored liquid ‘bile juice’ which is important for digestion.

Types of gallstones

Cholesterol stones
These are green in color and are the most common. If the amount of bile in the gallbladder increases, then cholesterol stones turn yellow.

Pigment stone
Pigment stones are black and small in color that are formed from bilirubin. It comes from bile produced by the liver and the gallbladder stores it.

Symptoms of gallstones

About 75% of patients do not show any signs and symptoms. If symptoms are not visible, it may be stuck in a duct. This is causing the problem of jam. The person may experience the below mentioned symptoms.

Sudden sharp pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
To burp
Diarrhea
back pain between shoulder blades
right shoulder pain
nausea vomiting
dark urine
indigestion / acidity
How are gallstones diagnosed?

Physical examination
The doctor will examine your skin and eyes to look for any changes that may indicate you have jaundice.

Ultrasound
Imaging methods can help visualize gallstones or any abnormalities.

Abdominal CT scan
Imaging tests can help you obtain images of the abdominal area and liver.

Blood test
Bilirubin should be tested and then liver function should be done.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
During this method, a camera and X-rays are used to look for problems in the bile duct.

How are gallstones treated?

surgery
non surgical treatment
shockwave lithotripsy
Which food options should you eat?

Dark Leafy Greens
Tomato
sardines
Mad
beans
Bell peppers
citrus fruits
Milk
low fat dairy
fish and shellfish
Tofu
Masur lentils