Gallstones are extremely common, and many people never notice them. But when they cause symptoms, recognising the warning signs early can prevent a routine issue from turning into an emergency.

Symptoms to watch for

• Sudden, intense pain in the upper right or centre of the abdomen, especially after a fatty meal.
• Pain spreading to the right shoulder or back.
• Nausea or vomiting alongside abdominal discomfort.
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or pale stools — signs the bile duct may be involved.
• Fever combined with abdominal pain, which can indicate infection.

When to see a surgeon

Occasional mild discomfort may not need immediate attention, but repeated pain episodes, fever, or jaundice should be evaluated promptly. Left untreated, gallstones can lead to complications such as infection or blockage of the bile duct, which are far easier to manage when caught early.

An ultrasound is usually all it takes to confirm a diagnosis, and in most cases, a laparoscopic gallbladder removal resolves the problem with a short recovery.