OverviewGallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in your gallbladder. Your gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ on the right side of your abdomen, just beneath your liver. The gallbladder holds a digestive fluid called bile that's released into your small intestine. Show
Gallstones range in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. Some people develop just one gallstone, while others develop many gallstones at the same time. People who experience symptoms from their gallstones usually require gallbladder removal surgery. Gallstones that don't cause any signs and symptoms typically don't need treatment. SymptomsGallstones may cause no signs or symptoms. If a gallstone lodges in a duct and causes a blockage, the resulting signs and symptoms may include:
Gallstone pain may last several minutes to a few hours. When to see a doctorMake an appointment with your doctor if you have any signs or symptoms that worry you. Seek immediate care if you develop signs and symptoms of a serious gallstone complication, such as:
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all of that information as protected health information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesIt's not clear what causes gallstones to form. Doctors think gallstones may result when:
Types of gallstonesTypes of gallstones that can form in the gallbladder include:
Risk factorsFactors that may increase your risk of gallstones include:
ComplicationsComplications of gallstones may include:
PreventionYou can reduce your risk of gallstones if you:
Aug. 20, 2021
RelatedAssociated ProceduresProducts & ServicesWhat happens if gallbladder is removed?You can lead a perfectly normal life without a gallbladder. Your liver will still make enough bile to digest your food, but instead of being stored in the gallbladder, it drips continuously into your digestive system.
What are signs of problems with your gallbladder?Symptoms. Jaundice.. Dark urine, lighter stools or both.. Rapid heartbeat and abrupt blood pressure drop.. Fever, chills, nausea and vomiting, with severe pain in the upper right abdomen.. Where do you feel pain from your gallbladder?If a gallstone lodges in a duct and causes a blockage, the resulting signs and symptoms may include: Sudden and rapidly intensifying pain in the upper right portion of your abdomen. Sudden and rapidly intensifying pain in the center of your abdomen, just below your breastbone. Back pain between your shoulder blades.
How big is a female gallbladder?The gallbladder is a hollow organ that sits in a shallow depression below the right lobe of the liver, which is grey-blue in life. In adults, the gallbladder measures approximately 7 to 10 centimetres (2.8 to 3.9 inches) in length and 4 centimetres (1.6 in) in diameter when fully distended.
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