Gallstone symptoms occur when gallstones develop in the gall bladder, known as cholelithiasis. Approximately 20 million Americans per year develop gallstones. Only 2-4% of patients with gallstones have to undergo surgery for removal of the gall bladder. Approximately 80% of patients with gallstones will not have any symptoms. However, if a gallstone results in blockage of the cystic duct then gallstone symptoms will occur.

Gallstone symptoms most often include abdominal pain in the right side of the abdomen, below the ribs. The pain is described as sharp, intermittent, and can last from minutes to hours. Sometimes patients with gallstone symptoms will develop pain in the right shoulder or in the right back area. Sometimes fever can develop. If gallstone symptoms are associated with infection it is referred to as cholecystitis. Other gallstone symptoms include jaundice (skin turning yellow), swelling of the abdomen, and pain in the right upper abdomen with taking a deep breath.

Gallstone symptoms can occur in anyone, but statistics indicate that they occur most commonly in females, in people greater than 40, and people with a family history of gallstones.

Other factors associated with gallstone symptoms include obesity, oral contraceptives, diabetes mellitus, pregnancy, or a recent weight loss. To view general information about gallstone symptoms (Cholelithiasis) click on Gallstone questions and answers page below.