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What symptoms can gallstones cause?

Nov 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, gallstones can cause symptoms such as biliary colic, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, chills and fever, and jaundice. Biliary colic is one of the more common symptoms of gallstones, primarily manifesting as intermittent pain in the right upper quadrant or upper abdomen, which may present as cramping pain. The pain sometimes radiates to the right shoulder and back and can vary in duration.

Generally, gallstones can cause symptoms such as biliary colic, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, chills and fever, and jaundice. It is recommended to seek timely medical examination at a hospital and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Biliary Colic

Biliary colic is a relatively common symptom of gallstones, primarily manifesting as intermittent pain in the upper right or upper abdomen, which may present as cramping pain. The pain sometimes radiates to the right shoulder and back, with variable duration. Some patients may experience pain attacks at night, and the severity may worsen after consuming greasy foods.

2. Nausea and Vomiting

Most patients experience nausea and vomiting during episodes of biliary colic, and the colic pain may be somewhat relieved after vomiting. Frequent vomiting can lead to dehydration and electrolyte disturbances in patients.

3. Indigestion

Gallstone patients often exhibit intolerance to fats and other foods, presenting symptoms such as excessive belching, abdominal distension, and heartburn. This may be due to gallstones affecting the storage and release of bile, thereby impairing digestive function.

4. Chills and Fever

When gallstones are complicated with acute cholecystitis, patients may develop chills and fever. If gallbladder hydrops is secondarily infected by bacteria, leading to gallbladder empyema, gangrene, or perforation, chills and fever become more pronounced.

5. Jaundice

Isolated gallstones do not directly cause jaundice; however, when gallstones are expelled into the common bile duct and cause obstruction, jaundice may develop. Jaundice manifests as yellowing of the sclera and skin, and some patients may also experience skin itching.

In daily life, it is important to eat meals regularly, especially breakfast, and avoid prolonged fasting. Long-term skipping of breakfast increases the time bile remains in the gallbladder, thereby increasing the risk of stone formation.

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