Abdominal & gallbladder

Gallstones

Right upper abdominal pain after meals may be related to the gallbladder.

Seek emergency care immediately if

Fever occurs with abdominal pain
The skin or eyes become yellow
Severe pain does not settle
Vomiting is persistent

Gallstones form inside the gallbladder. Some do not cause symptoms, but symptomatic stones can lead to episodes of pain, gallbladder inflammation, jaundice or pancreatitis.

When should you be assessed?

Severe pain in the right upper abdomen
Pain that may occur after meals, particularly fatty meals
Pain radiating to the back or right shoulder
Nausea or vomiting
Recurrent attacks of pain

How is it assessed?

Medical examination
Abdominal ultrasound
Blood tests
MRCP, CT scan or other tests if complications are suspected

Infographic of cholecystectomy, showing laparoscopic removal of the gallbladder. — Example Treatment: Cholecystectomy

Treatment Options

For gallbladder stones that cause symptoms, the usual definitive treatment is removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy), most commonly using laparoscopic surgery. The timing and type of treatment depend on any complications and your overall health. Gallbladder stones that cause no symptoms do not usually need surgery. Stones in the bile duct may need removal, often using a procedure called ERCP.

Related care

All treatments

Have Symptoms? Arrange an Assessment

Send an enquiry