Aim to lose 1 or 2 pounds (about 0.5 to 1 kilogram) a week. Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstones. Skipping meals or fasting can increase the risk of gallstones.

Try to stick to your usual mealtimes each day. You can reduce your risk of gallstones if you: But gallbladder cancer is very rare, so even though the risk of cancer is elevated, the likelihood of gallbladder cancer is still very small. People with a history of gallstones have an increased risk of gallbladder cancer. Pancreatitis causes intense, constant abdominal pain and usually requires hospitalization. Pancreatic juices, which aid in digestion, flow through the pancreatic duct.Ī gallstone can cause a blockage in the pancreatic duct, which can lead to inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). The pancreatic duct is a tube that runs from the pancreas and connects to the common bile duct just before entering the duodenum.

Severe pain, jaundice and bile duct infection can result.īlockage of the pancreatic duct. Gallstones can block the tubes (ducts) through which bile flows from your gallbladder or liver to your small intestine. Cholecystitis can cause severe pain and fever. A gallstone that becomes lodged in the neck of the gallbladder can cause inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis).

Taking medications that contain estrogen, such as oral contraceptives or hormone therapy drugs.

Having certain blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia or leukemia.

These dark brown or black stones form when your bile contains too much bilirubin.įactors that may increase your risk of gallstones include: These gallstones are composed mainly of undissolved cholesterol, but may contain other components. The most common type of gallstone, called a cholesterol gallstone, often appears yellow in color. Types of gallstones that can form in the gallbladder include: If your gallbladder doesn't empty completely or often enough, bile may become very concentrated, contributing to the formation of gallstones.

Your gallbladder doesn't empty correctly.

The excess bilirubin contributes to gallstone formation. Certain conditions cause your liver to make too much bilirubin, including liver cirrhosis, biliary tract infections and certain blood disorders. Bilirubin is a chemical that's produced when your body breaks down red blood cells.

Your bile contains too much bilirubin.

But if your liver excretes more cholesterol than your bile can dissolve, the excess cholesterol may form into crystals and eventually into stones. Normally, your bile contains enough chemicals to dissolve the cholesterol excreted by your liver.

Your bile contains too much cholesterol.

Doctors think gallstones may result when: It's not clear what causes gallstones to form. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic Causes

Sign of gallbladder issues