Gallstones: Symptoms, Diet and When You Need Surgery

Starcare International Hospital · No. 21, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Maryland-GRA, Ikeja, Lagos
+234 9152 70 70 70 · WhatsApp +234 9154 70 70 70

A sharp pain in the upper-right abdomen after a heavy, fatty meal is a classic sign of gallstones — one of the most common reasons for abdominal surgery. Many people have gallstones without ever knowing; others need their gallbladder removed. Our general surgeons at Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, explain symptoms, diet and when surgery is needed.

• Common
  many adults have silent gallstones
• After meals
  fatty food often triggers pain
• Keyhole
  standard for gallbladder removal
• Day case
  many go home the same day

Silent gallstones often need no treatment, but stones that cause pain or complications usually mean the gallbladder should come out — safely, by keyhole surgery. Explore our general & laparoscopic surgery service in Ikeja.

Recognising Gallstone Trouble

Typical symptoms

Severe, gripping pain in the upper-right abdomen (sometimes spreading to the back or shoulder blade), often after fatty meals, with nausea.

Silent stones

Many gallstones cause no symptoms and are found by chance — these usually just need observation.

⚠ Important: Fever with abdominal pain, yellowing of the eyes (jaundice), or persistent vomiting can signal a serious gallstone complication. Treat this as an emergency and visit our A&E unit.

Diet and Gallstones

What can help

A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fibre and healthy fats, and limiting fried and very fatty foods, may reduce symptom flare-ups.

What diet cannot do

Diet does not dissolve existing stones. If stones are causing repeated pain, surgery is the definitive treatment.

When Surgery Is Needed

Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy) is recommended when stones cause:

• Repeated pain attacks
• Inflammation of the gallbladder
• Blockage or complications

It is almost always done by keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery, and life continues normally without a gallbladder.

Recurring Abdominal Pain After Meals?

Book a surgical assessment at Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja — including ultrasound and a clear treatment plan.

Book an Appointment →

Gallstones at a Glance

SituationUsual ApproachNo symptoms (silent)Monitor, no surgery neededRepeated pain attacksKeyhole gallbladder removalFever / jaundiceUrgent assessment — possible emergencyAfter surgeryNormal life without a gallbladder

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the questions our patients in Lagos ask most often. For anything specific to your case, our specialist team at Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, is always available to help.

Can I live without a gallbladder?

Yes, completely normally. Bile simply flows directly from the liver to the intestine. Most people notice no lasting difference.

Will changing my diet dissolve gallstones?

No. Diet may reduce flare-ups, but it does not dissolve stones. Surgery is the definitive treatment for symptomatic gallstones.

How long is recovery after keyhole gallbladder surgery?

Many people return to light activity within one to two weeks, with heavier activity a little later. Your surgeon will advise.

Are gallstones dangerous?

Silent stones are usually harmless, but stones causing blockage, infection or jaundice can be serious and need prompt care.

Final Takeaway: Treat the Symptoms, Not Just the Stones

Silent gallstones can simply be watched, but stones causing repeated pain or complications are best treated with safe, keyhole gallbladder removal. At Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, our surgical team guides you to the right decision.

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• Laparoscopic Surgery in Lagos
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• Our General & Laparoscopic Surgery Service

Tags: Gallstones Lagos · Gallbladder Surgery Ikeja · Cholecystectomy Nigeria · Abdominal Pain Lagos · Keyhole Surgery Lagos