Tips on gallstone disease

Gallstones are one of the most common gastrointestinal (GI) problems, especially for women.

Women between the ages of 20 and 60 years are three times more likely to develop gallstones than men. Gallstones are solid clumps of cholesterol or pigment material that form in the gallbladder, and can range in size from a single grain of sand up to the size of a ping-pong ball.

Risk factors for the development of gallstones include:
1. Female gender
2. Multiple pregnancies
3. Age over 60
4. Obesity
5. Rapid weight loss (especially after weight loss (bariatric) surgery)
6. Diabetes

Some common symptoms of symptomatic gallstones include:
1. Severe pain in the upper stomach
2. Pain under the shoulder or in the right shoulder blade
3. Nausea or vomiting
4. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
5. Fever/chills

When the pain of a “gallbladder attack” lasts longer than 1 to 2 hours, or is associated with fever, you should see your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention.

Tips to help lower the risk of gallstones:
1. Maintain a healthy body weight
2. Avoid crash diets or a very low intake of calories—less than 800 calories a day
3. Exercise regularly
4. Choose a low-fat, high-fiber diet that emphasizes fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

For more information on gallstone disease, visit the ACG website at http://www.acg.gi.org