Please talk to me about gallstones

[AlexaShutUp]

I think I have gallstones. I'm currently awaiting an appointment for an ultrasound scan but GP said it could take some time to come through.

I've had a couple of episodes of nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain after eating within the last couple of weeks. I'm quite high risk for gallstones - 48, female BMI 33/34. I've also lost about three and a half stone over the last year, although I have tried to do it slowly and sensibly.

Can anyone tell me about their experiences of gallstones and share any tips on how to minimise the risk of further attacks while I'm waiting for the ultrasound? Is surgery inevitable if they find gallstones?

Just feeling really anxious and annoyed with myself for letting my weight cause these issues.

[oil0W0lio]

Hi OP, well done for losing 3.5 stone
I'm also a person with an iffy gallbladder waiting for ultrasound, I dont have much advice to offer but you have my sympathy and I hope someone more knowledgeable comes along soon!

[Ziga]

Not too much help but just wanted to say I’m the exact same OP but I’m 20 years younger than you which made me feel even worse about getting into this situation.

I had a horrific attack 1 month ago that led me to A&E, now on the surgical waiting list. I think avoiding spicy foods and heavy meals is the best solution until you get your ultrasound but actually the surgical team at the hospital said it can be triggered by pretty much anything.

AMAZING for losing 3.5 stone, keep going!

[AlexaShutUp]

Thanks both, I'm sorry to hear that you're in a similar situation. Definitely avoiding heavy meals for the time being...I'm too scared to eat much! Avoiding spicy food will be harder as I tend to cook with loads of spices, but I'll have to try and tone it down. I'm trying to avoid fatty foods as well.

[Ziga]

I’m the exact same - love the spice! I think identifying your own triggers hopefully will be helpful. If you do get a bad attack the only thing that mildly helped me was a boiling hot hot water bottle!

[peachgreen]

You'll find your own triggers - lettuce was one of mine! - and learn what to avoid. For the 6 weeks before my surgery I ate nothing but brown rolls, grilled chicken, pears and raw carrot! Buscopan is great when you feel an attack coming on - take double the over the counter dose or get it prescribed.

[mummabear74]

I had gallstones about 2 years ago and ended up having my gallbladder removed. The bouts were horrific and worse than childbirth. It all started after losing weight (a couple of stone) in a short period of time so sounds similar to your situation. I ended up too frightened to eat (hence losing more weight) and found eating fish with salad to be a safe option and had it every night out of fear. I would recommend you keep a diary logging all instances and what food you're eating. Go back to your GP/consultant if it gets worse.