Updated on 23 Dec 2025
Gallstones are common health-related issues that affect many individuals in India. They are hard and small deposits that form in the gallbladder and can lead to discomfort and pain. While many people might not realise they have these stones, others might experience symptoms that need medical attention. When you understand what gallstones are and how they get diagnosed and the sort of treatment options available, it will allow you to take timely action. In this blog, you will uncover more insights about these stones so that you can improve your well-being and overall health.
What are gallstones?
Gallstones are known as solid particles that form inside the gallbladder, which is a small organ situated under the liver. The gallbladder is well-known for storing bile, a digestive liquid that aids in breaking down fats. In general, all gallstones develop when there is a high level of waste in the bile, cholesterol or bile salts. They can be like a small grain of sand or as massive as a golf ball.
What are the symptoms of gallstones?
In many situations, gallstones don’t cause any symptoms, and these are known as silent gallstones. However, when the gallstones block the bile flow, they can lead to pain symptoms, such as:
- Chills or fever (if there is an infection)
- A sharp and sudden pain in the upper-right section of the abdomen.
- Gas, bloating and indigestion
- Vomiting and nausea
- Pain in the right shoulder blade or back pain
When you experience all these symptoms, you must consult with a physician without any delay.
How are gallstones diagnosed?
Physicians usually diagnose gallstones via imaging tests. The most well-known test is the ultrasound, which offers clear images of the gallbladder, and it shows if there are any stones present inside it. Apart from ultrasound, doctors also use the following tests:
- Blood tests are conducted to check if there is any blockage or infection.
- MRI or CT scans help in identifying gallstones and also check for complications.
Diagnosis assists all doctors in deciding whether an individual needs treatment, because not every gallstone needs surgery.
What is the treatment for gallstones?
The following methods are employed for gallstones treatment:
1. Surgery to Remove the Gallbladder (Cholecystectomy):
- For recurring gallstones, cholecystectomy—or the removal of the gallbladder—is advised.
- This method avoids the gallbladder and allows bile to travel straight from the liver to the small intestine, preventing future stone development.
- Digestion is not greatly affected by living without the gallbladder. However, transient diarrhoea could happen.
- The procedure offers comfort by eliminating the possibility of more gallstone-related disorders, guaranteeing a more seamless digestive process in the absence of the gallbladder, and resolving recurrent gallstone-related problems.
2. Medications for gallstone dissolution
- Gallstones can be dissolved using oral medicines, but the process can take time, taking months or even years. Additionally, stopping treatment shortens the time it takes for gallstones to regenerate.
- It is not widely used because of doubts regarding its effectiveness; it is usually chosen for those who cannot undergo surgery.
- Although it can dissolve gallstones, its long duration and tendency to recur after treatment are major drawbacks that affect its general use as the main therapy for gallstone-related problems.
3. Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy:
- The gallbladder can be removed using a minimally invasive surgery called a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
- Surgeons make tiny incisions in the abdomen using tiny instruments and a tiny camera. For improved vision and ease of operation, they inject carbon dioxide gas.
- Patients heal more quickly, have fewer scars, and spend less time in the hospital when using this technique.
- With this method, patients can return to their routine more quickly and with less discomfort than with open surgery, which necessitates a larger incision.
- Ultimately, compared to open surgery, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a more advanced method of removing the gallbladder that causes less pain and a quicker recovery for patients.
Conclusion
Gallstones can be disruptive and painful at the same time. However, with the correct diagnosis and treatment, it can be managed properly. In many cases, surgery offers permanent removal of the stones and offers relief and prevents future issues. However, it's also crucial to have medical insurance, as it will help you cover the expenses when you plan on surgically removing the gallstones.
Apart from that, if you need effective solutions and advice on a family health insurance policy, you can begin by filling out the form listed on this page. This can help you stay well-prepared for the medical costs that come with gallstone treatment and other health-related issues.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.