Patient Education6 min read
Gallstones: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
A comprehensive guide covering the symptoms, diagnostic methods and modern treatment options for gallstone disease.
DR
M.D. Muhammed Çağrı Coşkun
General Surgery Specialist
Published: 5 November 2024
Gallstones are concretions of minerals and cholesterol that accumulate in the gallbladder. Affecting approximately 10–15% of the population, they occur more frequently in women.
Symptoms
- Right upper abdominal pain (often after fatty meals)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever (if infection is present)
- Jaundice (if the bile duct becomes obstructed)
Diagnosis
Ultrasonography is the first-line imaging for gallstone diagnosis. MRCP or CT may be used when additional information is required.