But if the bile gets too saturated with cholesterol, gallstones can form. Some people, though, have symptomatic gallstones, which can cause pain, hospitalization, and even be life-threatening. This type of gallstone requires immediate care. The American Gastroenterological Association says the most typical symptom of gallstone disease is severe steady pain in the upper abdomen or right side, which can last for as little as 15 minutes or as long as several hours. There may also be pain between the shoulder blades or in the right shoulder, as well as vomiting or sweating.
Obesity is one of the key risk factors for gallstones.
It's also possible that fasting may decrease gallbladder contractions and if the gallbladder does not contract often enough to empty out the bile, gallstones may form. Treatment Silent gallstones are usually left alone and occasionally disappear on their own. Usually only patients with symptomatic gallstones are treated. According to the American Gastroenterological Association, the most common treatment for gallstones is a cholecystectomy surgery to remove the gallbladder. Standard surgery may be used.