Gallstones are one of the most common conditions we see in surgical practice. If you’ve been told you have gallstones, or you’re having pain and wondering what’s going on — you probably have a lot of questions. This guide brings together the questions we hear most often in clinic, so you can read through in your own time and come prepared for your consultation.
What are gallstones?
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form inside the gallbladder. Some people never develop symptoms at all, while others experience severe pain known as biliary colic.
What does gallstone pain feel like?
Typical symptoms include:
- Pain in the right upper abdomen or upper middle abdomen
- Pain after eating oily or heavy meals
- Pain lasting from 30 minutes to several hours
- Pain that may spread to the back or right shoulder
- Nausea or vomiting
If the pain is associated with fever or jaundice, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Why do gallstones suddenly become painful?
The pain occurs when a gallstone temporarily blocks the outlet of the gallbladder. Once the stone moves away, the pain often settles.
Unfortunately, even if the pain resolves completely, the stone remains, and another attack can occur at any time.
Can medication dissolve gallstones?
Many patients ask about medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid (Ursofalk).
In most symptomatic patients, medication isn’t the preferred treatment because:
- It only works for certain types of stones
- Treatment usually takes months or years
- Stones commonly recur after stopping the medication
- It doesn’t correct a diseased or thickened gallbladder
For recurrent symptoms, laparoscopic gallbladder removal (laparoscopic cholecystectomy) remains the definitive treatment.
What can I eat if I have gallstones?
A low-fat diet may help reduce attacks while you’re waiting for surgery.
Foods to choose:
- Plain porridge
- Rice
- Noodles
- Lean chicken
- Fish
- Tofu
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Plenty of water
Foods to limit or avoid:
- Fried foods
- Oily foods
- Fatty meats
- Fast food
- Butter and cream
- Full-cream milk, if it triggers symptoms
- Large meals
Eating smaller meals more frequently is generally better than one large meal.
Can I still breastfeed if I need gallbladder surgery?
Yes. Most mothers are able to continue breastfeeding after surgery. Depending on the anaesthetic medications used, your surgeon may advise discarding expressed breast milk for 8–12 hours after the operation before resuming breastfeeding.
Please discuss this with your surgeon and anaesthetist before surgery.
What happens if I don’t remove my gallbladder?
Some patients remain symptom-free for a period of time. However, gallstones can lead to complications such as:
- Recurrent biliary colic
- Acute cholecystitis (infection of the gallbladder)
- Gallstone pancreatitis
- Blockage of the bile duct
- Jaundice
The more attacks you have, the higher the chance of developing complications.
Is gallbladder surgery safe?
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the most commonly performed operations worldwide. Most patients:
- Stay in hospital for one day
- Return to light activities within one to two weeks
- Resume normal activities in about four to six weeks
As with any surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, bile leak, injury to nearby structures, and risks related to anaesthesia, although serious complications are uncommon.
When should I see a doctor urgently?
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop:
- Severe abdominal pain lasting several hours
- Fever or chills
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin
- Persistent vomiting
- Dark urine or pale stools
These symptoms may indicate a more serious gallstone-related complication.
Final Advice on Gallstone Management
If you’ve had one or more attacks of gallstone pain, it’s worth discussing your options with a surgeon. While dietary changes can help reduce symptoms, they don’t remove the gallstones themselves. Early assessment allows you to understand the risks and benefits of treatment before complications develop.
If you have any questions after reading this, or would like to arrange a consultation, please get in touch with our clinic.
G&L Surgical: Contact & Location
G&L Surgical Clinic offers consultations with Dr Ganesh Ramalingam to assess your gallbladder and discuss your options.
Location: 38 Irrawaddy Road, #05-23, Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore 329563
WhatsApp: +65 9088 8313
