Health in Focus — by UKSONO
Gallstones & Gallbladder Health
A concise, patient-friendly guide to what gallstones are, typical symptoms, who’s at risk, and how ultrasound confirms the diagnosis quickly and safely.
Same-day results
No referral needed
CQC-registered
What are gallstones?
Gallstones are solid deposits that form inside the gallbladder — a small organ beneath the liver that stores bile. Stones can range from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Many people have gallstones without knowing, but some develop painful symptoms that need assessment.
Common symptoms
- Sudden, severe pain in the upper right abdomen (often after fatty meals)
- Pain that may radiate to the right shoulder or back
- Nausea, bloating or indigestion
- Yellowing of the skin (jaundice) in complicated cases
Who is at risk?
- Women, especially over 40
- Overweight individuals or those losing weight rapidly
- Family history of gallstones
- Diets high in fat and cholesterol
When to seek help: If pain is severe, persistent, or associated with fever or jaundice, seek urgent medical assessment.
Why ultrasound?
Ultrasound is the first-line test to confirm gallstones. It can show stones, sludge and gallbladder inflammation, check the bile ducts for blockage, and help detect complications early.
- Safe: no radiation
- Quick: 15–20 minutes
- Accurate: excellent for detecting gallstones
Next step: If you’re experiencing symptoms, consider an abdominal ultrasound. UKSONO provides consultation, scan, same-day report and images — all included.
Abdominal Ultrasound
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