Which symptom is commonly associated with gallstones?

The symptom frequently associated with gallstones is severe pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. This pain, often described as sharp and intense, occurs due to the stones blocking the bile ducts, leading to inflammation of the gallbladder, a condition known as cholecystitis. This type of pain can also radiate to the back or right shoulder and may occur after eating fatty meals, which stimulates gallbladder contraction and the expulsion of bile to digest fats. Recognizing this symptom is crucial, as it often prompts individuals to seek medical attention and may lead to further evaluation and treatment options.

Other symptoms may occur, but the characteristic upper right quadrant pain is a prominent indicator of gallbladder issues, particularly when gallstones are present.