Gallstones form silently in many adults and stay asymptomatic for years. When they obstruct the cystic duct or common bile duct they cause biliary colic, acute cholecystitis, or gallstone pancreatitis. Symptomatic gallstones are an indication for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Asymptomatic stones are usually observed unless specific high-risk features are present (porcelain gallbladder, large stones, polyp coexistence, sickle-cell disease).
Condition
Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)
Also known as: Cholelithiasis · Biliary calculi
Gallstones are hardened deposits of cholesterol or bilirubin in the gallbladder. Most are silent, but symptomatic gallstones cause pain after fatty meals, nausea, and risk of complications like pancreatitis.
Signs and symptoms
When to suspect gallstones (cholelithiasis)
- Right upper abdominal pain after meals (biliary colic)
- Pain radiating to the right shoulder or back
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and indigestion
- Fever and jaundice in complicated cases
Risk factors
Who is at higher risk
- Female sex (especially after age 40)
- Obesity and rapid weight loss
- Family history of gallstones
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
- High-cholesterol or low-fibre diet
- Certain medications (oestrogen, fibrates)
Surgical treatment options
Procedures Dr. Reddy performs for gallstones (cholelithiasis)
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery (Cholecystectomy)
Day care laparoscopic gallbladder surgery by Dr. Dwarakanath Reddy at Apollo Nellore. Tiny cuts, same day discharge in most cases.
Related conditions
Others in the same area of practice.
ICD-10 · K22.0
Achalasia Cardia
A motility disorder of the oesophagus where the lower oesophageal sphincter fails to relax. Causes progressive difficulty swallowing both solids and liquids, regurgitation, and weight loss. Treated definitively by Heller's myotomy or POEM.
ICD-10 · K35
Acute Appendicitis
Inflammation of the vermiform appendix. The most common cause of acute abdominal pain requiring surgery. Untreated, it progresses to perforation within 24 to 48 hours.
ICD-10 · K21
Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Chronic acid reflux from the stomach into the oesophagus. Causes heartburn, regurgitation, and over time, oesophagitis or Barrett's oesophagus. Severe GERD that fails medical therapy is a surgical indication.
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