How to detect gallstones

I SUFFER intense cramps and pain in my stomach after eating, my Mum had to have her gallbladder removed, could I have the same problem?

The gallbladder is a small organ situated below the liver, its main function is to store bile produced by the liver to digest fat, and aid with the absorption of nutrients in the body. When it malfunctions, this causes an imbalance in the chemical make­up of the bile creating gallstones.

Gallstones are somewhat unique in that they often can happen without the patient showing any symptoms. Many people don’t notice they have one until they feel an intense and sharp pain in the abdomen often after eating a large meal.

Mild discomfort to severe cramping in the upper right side of the abdomen is caused often with added symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Females over 40, diabetics, obese people and those that eat a diet high in fat are more prone to produce gallstones, but they can also be hereditary.

Gallstones may not show symptoms.

A simple blood test can show signs of jaundice and inflammation caused by gallstones, but it is essential to perform an abdominal ultrasound, which can detect gallstones in an instance.

However, if the stones are deep within the abdomen a CT or MRI scan will be necessary to confirm a positive diagnosis.