Cholelithiasis is very common with the incidence 1 out of 1,000 people. The prevalence is greater in women, native Americans, and people over 40. There is no known way to prevent gallstones. If you have gallstone symptoms, eating a low fat diet and losing weight may be helpful in controlling symptoms. Bile salts taken orally may dissolve gallstones in those with a functioning gallbladder, but the process may take 2 years or longer, and stones may recur after the therapy is discontinued.
Gallstones develop in many people without causing symptoms.
This illustration shows the major organs of the digestive system. Their relative sizes and positioning in the body are also demonstrated. CT scan of the upper abdomen showing multiple gallstones. A cholecystogram in a patient with gallstones.