Gallstones

What are Gallstones?

Gallstones are hard deposits in the gallbladder which can get stuck in the bile ducts. The gallbladder processes bile, which helps the body to digest fats. Gallstones form when bile does not process cholesterol and other undigested substances in your gallbladder which cause them to harden and block bile ducts. Gallstones could be a sign of excess toxins in your system, and that your gallbladder is not functioning properly. Gallstones can block the ducts that transport the bile from the gallbladder to the intestines, causing inflammation and pain. Abnormally high levels of bilirubin in the gallbladder is another reason for the formation of gallstones. 
 

What are the symptoms of Gallstones?

• Back pain between the shoulder blades or in the right shoulder
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sudden intense pain in upper right abdomen or below the breastbone
   

How are Gallstones diagnosed?

Blood Test
A complete blood count blood test will be done to check for white blood cell increase due to infection. 


Imaging Tests
Abdominal imaging tests are done with ultrasound or CT scan to check for inflammation, tumours or abscesses.