What are gallstones?
The gallbladder, a small, muscular, pear-shaped sac below the liver, is a reservoir for bile (produced by the liver), which is expelled into the duodenum and used by the body to digest fats. Gallstones are formed from bile components that become saturated, or too thick, and crystallize to stones. About 8% of the U.S. population has gallstones. Stones are often asymptomatic, but can lead to gallbladder inflammation. When the inflamed gallbladder tries to expel the stones, it can cause severe pain. It can be life threatening if untreated, so see your physician immediately. What symptoms can be associated with gallstones? • Severe pain in the upper right abdomen. • Fever. • Nausea and vomiting. • Jaundice. • Chronic gas. • Excessive belching.
