Gallbladder Stone Basics
This guide covers the fundamentals of gallbladder stones (cholelithiasis) – from what they are, how they form, to symptoms, causes, types, and diagnosis. Use the links below to explore each topic in detail.
📚 Sub‑Pages in This Section
Definition, composition, and how stones form in the gallbladder.
Early and late signs, including biliary colic and atypical presentations.
The 5F’s (Female, Fat, Forty, Fertile, Family) and other risk factors.
Cholesterol vs pigment stones – differences and implications.
What is biliary sludge? When does it progress to stones?
Asymptomatic stones – when to watch, when to treat.
Classic gallbladder pain: location, duration, triggers.
Size matters – risk of complications by stone size.
The paradox: small stones migrate and cause pancreatitis.
Pregnancy, oestrogen, and female‑specific risks.
Less common but often more aggressive.
Rare but rising – causes and management.
Key differences in symptoms, location, and treatment.
Ultrasound, CT, HIDA scan, and blood tests.
Right upper quadrant, referred pain to shoulder.
What it means and how it’s tested.
Myths and facts.
Why pain can radiate to the back and shoulder.
When nausea indicates a gallbladder problem.