How to Identify Symptoms of Gallstones

Gallstones, also known as Cholelithiasis, are caused by a buildup of bile in the gallbladder, the organ in the body that stores bile. Used in the digestive process, bile is a liquid that is created in the liver. A gallstone forms when various substances or components in the bile harden. Often, causes are high cholesterol, or because the gallbladder does not empty properly. Such stones may be as small as grains of sand or larger. Some individuals have experienced gall stones the size of golf balls. Gallstones may number in the single digits or in the hundreds, depending on the length of time that they have been allowed to build up. It is important to know how to identify symptoms of gallstones in order to prevent gallbladder, pancreas or liver damage.

Instructions

• 1

  Be alert to sharp pains that occur in the upper right of the stomach area of the abdomen. This pain could be caused by gas or indigestion. The pain caused by gallstones will be chronic in nature.

• 2

  Pay attention to any pain experienced between the shoulder blades, which is also a common symptom of gallbladder trouble.

• 3

  Experiencing unexplained nausea or vomiting is also a symptom of gallstones, so an individual might want to keep track of such episodes so he can discuss this with his doctor.

• 4

  Watch for signs of bloating or burping after eating. While many individuals feel bloated after eating meals, such signs in the presence of gallstones are chronic in nature.

• 5

  Pay attention to any skin discoloration. Gallstones often cause the skin to take on a yellowish cast that is caused by jaundice.