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Health library/Gallstones

Digestive health

Gallstones

Also known as: Cholelithiasis

Gallstones are solid deposits that form in the gallbladder. They may cause no symptoms or block bile flow and trigger painful inflammation.

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What you may notice

Symptoms can overlap with other conditions and vary between people.

  • Upper abdominal pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Sometimes no symptoms

Understanding care

Clinical care may include assessment of bile flow and discussion of observation or procedures according to symptoms. A qualified clinician decides which investigations and options fit the individual situation.

When to seek help

Severe or persistent upper abdominal pain, fever or jaundice needs urgent assessment. Do not assume repeated abdominal pain is a harmless digestive problem.

For severe breathing difficulty, collapse, suspected stroke, or another emergency, call local emergency services immediately. In India, call 112.

Read the medical sources

These sources support the educational article and offer more detail.

Educational reading · Updated 6 October 2026

Prepared from the linked sources. This summary has not had an independent clinician review. A qualified clinician can assess symptoms and explain which information applies to you.

A child and a caring grown-up reading a picture book together

LITTLE PEOPLE. BIG FEELINGS.

It’s okay to have
a lot of questions.

A doctor visit or an unfamiliar health word can feel scary. You can ask a trusted grown-up to help you understand, one small question at a time.

01

Say how you feel.

“I feel worried” is a good place to start.

02

Ask for simple words.

“Can you explain that in a way I understand?”

03

Bring someone you trust.

A caring adult can help you ask and listen.

For children and their grown-ups. This illustration explains a conversation, not a diagnosis. An adult should seek qualified care for a child who is unwell.

Gallstones — First AID health library