Gallstones

There is no specific home treatment for gallstones, but be sure to call your doctor if:

• You think you have symptoms that may be caused by gallstones. If your doctor finds that you do have gallstones but your symptoms are mild, it is generally safe to wait until you have more than one attack before you consider having surgery.
• You develop symptoms of a gallstone attack again, especially if they are severe or occur with fever, chills, or yellowing of your skin or the white part of your eyes.
• You have new belly pain or other belly symptoms. Pain in the belly can be a symptom of many health problems.

You may be able to help prevent gallstones if:

• You stay close to a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise.
• You avoid rapid weight loss. Intentional weight loss (dieting, as opposed to weight loss from illness) followed by weight gain may increase your risk of gallstones, especially if you are a woman. If you need to lose weight, do so slowly and sensibly.

If you have recently had surgery to remove your gallbladder:

• Watch for signs of infection. Call your doctor if the area around the incision is red and puffy or if you have a fever.
• Call your doctor if you have yellowing of the skin or the white part of the eyes (jaundice), light-colored stools, and dark urine. These symptoms may be signs that gallstones are blocking the Reference common bile duct Opens New Window.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.