Patient information from BMJ

Gallstones: questions to ask your doctor

Last published:Jan 04, 2024

If you've been told that you have gallstones or you are thinking about having gallbladder surgery you may want to ask your doctor these questions.

Questions about gallstones

What are gallstones? Who gets them?
Are you sure that gallstones are causing my symptoms?
What are the chances that my symptoms will get better without treatment?
Is there anything I can do to help prevent having another attack?
What can help with gallstone pain?
Can gallstones cause other complications? What should I do if that happens?

Questions about surgery

If you are thinking about having surgery to take out your gallbladder you should talk with your doctor and your surgeon to find out more. Here are some questions you might want to ask.

Will taking out my gallbladder make my symptoms go away?
Are there any alternatives to having my gallbladder removed?
What kind of surgery will I have?
How long will I have to wait for the surgery?
What are the risks involved?
How long will I need to stay in hospital?
How much time does it take to recover from the surgery?
Is there anything I should do, or avoid while I'm waiting for surgery?
What can I expect after having the surgery?

The patient information from BMJ Best Practice is regularly updated. The most recent version of Best Practice can be found at bestpractice.bmj.com. This information is intended for use by health professionals. It is not a substitute for medical advice. It is strongly recommended that you independently verify any interpretation of this material and, if you have a medical problem, see your doctor.

Please see BMJ's full terms of use at: bmj.com/company/legal-information. BMJ does not make any representations, conditions, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that this material is accurate, complete, up-to-date or fit for any particular purposes.

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