Gallstones: Causes, Symptoms & Potential Confusion with Bladder Issues

Gallstones form when bile components (cholesterol, bilirubin) become supersaturated and crystallize. Risk factors:

• High cholesterol in bile
• High bilirubin in bile
• Obesity
• Rapid weight loss
• Diabetes
• Certain medications (oral contraceptives, HRT)
• Family history

Location: Gallstones form in the gallbladder (under the liver), not the bladder. They can block bile flow to the intestine, causing pain (biliary colic), nausea, and jaundice. Bladder stones are a separate condition.