Gallstones: Symptoms, Warning Signs & When Surgery is Necessary

Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that form in your gallbladder—a small pear-shaped organ located beneath your liver. In South India, gallstones are increasingly common due to changing dietary habits, genetics, and metabolic risk factors. ### Common Symptoms to Watch For Many gallstones remain silent for years. However, when a stone temporarily blocks the cystic duct, it triggers 'biliary colic': - Sudden, intensifying pain in the upper right side or center of the abdomen - Pain radiating to your right shoulder blade or back - Nausea and vomiting following heavy or fatty meals - Indigestion, bloating, and upper abdominal burning ### Warning Signs of Serious Complications If you develop any of the following, seek emergency medical care immediately: - High fever with chills - Yellowing of the eyes or skin (Jaundice), indicating a stone slipped into the Common Bile Duct (CBD) - Severe, unbearable abdominal pain persisting for several hours - Dark urine and clay-colored stools ### The Gold Standard Treatment: Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy At Mysore Institute of Gastroenterology (MIG) at NJ Hospital, gallstones are treated using minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Through 3 to 4 tiny keyhole incisions (ranging from 5 mm to 10 mm), the surgeon removes the diseased gallbladder with high-definition optical magnification. Patients typically experience minimal discomfort, start walking on the same evening, and are discharged home within 24 to 36 hours.