For the other approximate 20% of individuals with gallstones, they can have intense pain, and this is often referred to as a "gallbladder attack." These gallbladder attacks will most often occur after a person eats a fatty meal, though they can occur at other times, such as during the night.
Symptoms of Gallstones
Symptoms of gallstones can include:- Pain in the upper abdomen that rapidly worsens and can last from a few minutes to several hours
- Pain in the back between the shoulder blades
- Pain under the right shoulder
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Abdominal bloating
- Intolerance of fatty foods
- Gas
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
If you have any of the above symptoms along with any of the following symptoms, you should see your doctor right away:
- Chills
- Low-grade fever
- Jaundice (yellowish color of the skin or whites of the eyes)
- Clay-colored stools
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For further information on gallstones:
- What Are Gallstones?
- What Causes Gallstones?
- How Are Gallstones Diagnosed?
- What Is the Treatment for Gallstones?
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Sources:
"Gallstones." American College of Gastroenterology. 9 Sep 2008
"Gallstones." NIH Publication No. 07–2897 July 2007. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). 9 Sep 2008
"Common Gastrointestinal Problems - Gallstones." American College of Gastroenterology. 9 Sep 2008
