A Silent Threat

Gallstones often go unnoticed for a long time

Women are more likely to suffer from gallstones than men.(Bild: leszekglasner - stock.adobe.com)

About 10–15 percent of Austrians have gallstones, predominantly women. The condition often goes undetected for a long time, but it can lead to serious complications. An expert explains how to detect stones early, what the risk factors are, and when treatment is necessary.

The gallbladder is shaped like a small pear and is located on the right side of the abdomen below the liver. Here, bile produced in the liver is stored and released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. An imbalance in the composition of this fluid can lead to the formation of gallstones.