Gallbladder symptoms: causes, assessment and GP guidance

Gallbladder problems most commonly relate to gallstones. These can cause characteristic upper abdominal pain, often triggered by meals, particularly fatty foods. Many people worry that ongoing indigestion or bloating may be related to the gallbladder, but true gallbladder symptoms usually follow a specific pattern.

This page explains how gallbladder symptoms typically present, how GPs assess them, which tests are used, and when urgent medical attention is needed.

These articles are intended as educational sources, not diagnostic nor taking place of a proper medical assessment. If you need help, please book an appointment with one of our GP’s.

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What the gallbladder does

The gallbladder stores bile, which helps digest fats. When you eat, the gallbladder contracts and releases bile into the digestive system.

Gallstones form when bile components crystallise. Many people have gallstones without symptoms, and no treatment is needed unless symptoms occur.

Where is the gallbladder? Imaging showing position of gallbladder.

Typical gallbladder symptoms

Gallbladder pain often has recognisable features:

Pain in the right upper abdomen or upper middle abdomen
Pain that comes on after eating, especially fatty meals
Pain lasting from 30 minutes to several hours
Pain that may spread to the right shoulder or upper back
Nausea or vomiting during pain episodes

This pattern is often referred to as biliary colic.

Symptoms that are less likely to be gallbladder related

Gallbladder disease is less likely if symptoms are:

Constant daily bloating without pain
Burning chest pain relieved by antacids
Lower abdominal pain relieved by opening the bowels
Pain related mainly to stress

These symptoms are more commonly linked to reflux, IBS or functional gut conditions.

Seek urgent medical advice if you develop:

Severe or worsening upper abdominal pain lasting more than a few hours
Fever or chills with abdominal pain
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Dark urine or pale stools
Persistent vomiting or feeling acutely unwell

Common gallbladder conditions

Gallstones

The most common cause of gallbladder symptoms. Many people have gallstones without symptoms.

Cholecystitis

Inflammation of the gallbladder, usually due to a blocked gallstone.

Severe, persistent pain
Fever
Feeling unwell

This requires urgent medical assessment.

Biliary obstruction

A gallstone blocking bile ducts may cause:

Jaundice
Dark urine
Pale stools
Itching

This also needs urgent review.

How GPs assess gallbladder symptoms

Assessment usually includes:

Detailed pain history and triggers
Location, timing and duration of symptoms
Examination of the abdomen
Review of risk factors such as pregnancy, weight changes and family history

Symptoms are often enough to guide whether gallbladder disease is likely.

Tests used to assess gallbladder problems

Blood tests

Blood tests may include liver function tests (LFTs) to look for signs of bile duct obstruction or inflammation.

Liver function tests explained

Ultrasound scan

An abdominal ultrasound is the first-line test for gallstones.

Non-invasive
No radiation
Highly effective at detecting gallstones

Ultrasound scans explained

When surgery is considered

Gallbladder removal may be discussed if:

Gallstones cause recurrent symptoms
There are complications such as cholecystitis or pancreatitis
Symptoms significantly affect quality of life

Self care and symptom management

If symptoms are mild or infrequent:

Avoid large or very fatty meals
Eat smaller, regular meals
Stay well hydrated

Self care does not remove gallstones but may reduce symptom triggers.

AccessGP work with blood tests to help you

When to seek GP review

Consider GP review if:

You have recurrent upper abdominal pain after meals
Symptoms are suggestive of gallstones
You want advice on investigations or referral
You are unsure whether symptoms are gallbladder related