Stones usually form in the gallbladder, but they may form in the common bile duct. When stones form in the common bile duct, the condition is called choledocholithiasis. Also, gallstones may move from the gallbladder into the common bile duct and become lodged in the duct. Pressure from stones blocking the duct makes it hard for the liver and gallblader to function. As a result, if you have stones you may have sudden pain on the right side of your abdomen.
Gallstones occur more often in people who have high cholesterol levels or diabetes.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and do a physical exam. He or she may order lab tests to look for signs of bile duct blockage. One nonsurgical way to treat common duct stones is with a drug called chenodiol. This drug can dissolve existing common duct stones, but stones may come back after a few years. Also, chenodiol has been associated with liver problems.