Question 1

What is Gallstones?

Accepted Answer

Gallstones are hardened deposits of bile that form in the gallbladder and can block bile ducts. They are caused by an imbalance in bile components, including excess cholesterol or bilirubin, leading to crystallization. The Bilirubin, Direct test is the most important test for diagnosing gallstone complications, as it detects bile duct obstruction when gallstones prevent proper bilirubin excretion.

Question 2

What causes gallstones?

Accepted Answer

Gallstones are caused by an imbalance in the chemical composition of bile stored in the gallbladder. When bile contains too much cholesterol, too much bilirubin, or not enough bile salts, these substances crystallize and form hardened deposits. Risk factors include obesity, rapid weight loss, pregnancy, high-fat diets, diabetes, and certain blood disorders that increase bilirubin production. Some people develop cholesterol gallstones when their liver produces more cholesterol than bile can dissolve, while others form pigment gallstones from excess bilirubin.

Question 3

What is the best test for gallstones?

Accepted Answer

The Bilirubin, Direct test is the most important blood test for detecting gallstone complications because it measures conjugated bilirubin levels that rise when gallstones block bile ducts. When bile flow is obstructed, direct bilirubin cannot be excreted properly and accumulates in the bloodstream, making this test essential for identifying bile duct blockage. Additional valuable tests include the Lipase, Serum test to detect pancreatic inflammation when gallstones block the pancreatic duct, and the Liver Function Profile to assess overall liver health and bilirubin levels. While ultrasound imaging diagnoses gallstones themselves, these blood tests identify serious complications requiring immediate treatment.

Question 4

When should I get tested for gallstones?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen that lasts several hours, especially after eating fatty meals. Other warning signs include yellowing of your skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, clay-colored stools, nausea and vomiting, or pain between your shoulder blades. Get tested immediately if you develop fever along with abdominal pain, as this may indicate a serious infection. People with risk factors like obesity, diabetes, family history of gallstones, or recent rapid weight loss should consider testing even with mild symptoms.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of gallstones?

Accepted Answer

Many people with gallstones have no symptoms at all, a condition called silent gallstones. When symptoms do occur, the most common is biliary colic—sudden, severe pain in the upper right abdomen that can last from 30 minutes to several hours, often triggered by eating fatty or greasy foods. You might also experience pain radiating to your right shoulder blade, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, bloating, and gas. Complications cause additional symptoms like jaundice (yellowing skin and eyes), dark urine, pale stools, fever, and chills. Some people mistake gallstone pain for heartburn or indigestion initially.

Question 6

Who is at risk for gallstones?

Accepted Answer

Women are twice as likely as men to develop gallstones, especially during pregnancy or when taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy. People over 40, those who are overweight or obese, and individuals who lose weight rapidly are at higher risk. Native Americans and Mexican Americans have genetic predispositions to gallstones. Other risk factors include diabetes, liver disease, certain blood disorders like sickle cell anemia, a sedentary lifestyle, a family history of gallstones, and diets high in fat and cholesterol but low in fiber. People who take cholesterol-lowering medications may also have increased risk.

Question 7

What happens if gallstones are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated gallstones can lead to serious, life-threatening complications. Bile duct obstruction can cause cholangitis, a severe infection requiring emergency treatment. Gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct can trigger acute pancreatitis, a painful and potentially fatal inflammation of the pancreas. Chronic inflammation from gallstones may lead to gallbladder perforation, peritonitis, or gallbladder cancer in rare cases. Prolonged bile duct blockage can cause permanent liver damage. Additionally, repeated gallstone attacks significantly reduce quality of life and can lead to chronic digestive problems. Early detection through blood testing helps prevent these complications.

Question 8

Can gallstones be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests cannot directly diagnose gallstones themselves—imaging studies like ultrasound are needed to visualize the stones. However, blood tests are essential for detecting gallstone complications and guiding treatment decisions. Elevated direct bilirubin indicates bile duct obstruction, while increased lipase levels signal pancreatic involvement. Liver function tests reveal how gallstones are affecting your liver health. These blood markers help doctors determine the severity of your condition and whether you need urgent intervention. Blood tests combined with imaging provide a complete picture of gallstones and their impact on your body.

Question 9

How are gallstones treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment depends on whether gallstones are causing symptoms and complications. Silent gallstones often require no treatment, just monitoring. Symptomatic gallstones typically require cholecystectomy, surgical removal of the gallbladder, which can be done laparoscopically with minimal recovery time. For people who cannot undergo surgery, oral medications like ursodiol can slowly dissolve cholesterol gallstones over months or years. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) can remove stones blocking bile ducts. In emergency situations with infection or inflammation, antibiotics and hospitalization may be necessary before surgery. Most people live normally without a gallbladder.

Question 10

How can I prevent gallstones?

Accepted Answer

Maintain a healthy weight through gradual weight loss rather than crash dieting, as rapid weight loss increases gallstone risk. Eat regular meals and avoid skipping breakfast, which helps your gallbladder empty regularly. Choose a diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting saturated fats and cholesterol. Stay physically active with at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. If you are overweight, lose weight slowly at a rate of 1-2 pounds per week. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. For women, discuss with your doctor whether hormone therapy increases your personal risk.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with gallstones?

Accepted Answer

While natural remedies cannot dissolve existing gallstones, certain approaches may support gallbladder health and reduce symptoms. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain healthy bile consistency. Some people find relief from peppermint tea, which may relax bile duct spasms. Turmeric contains curcumin, which stimulates bile production and may improve gallbladder function. Apple cider vinegar diluted in water is a popular folk remedy, though scientific evidence is limited. Avoiding trigger foods like fried foods, high-fat dairy, and processed meats can prevent painful attacks. However, these approaches should complement, not replace, medical treatment, especially if you have complications requiring immediate care.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Gallstones Blood Test & Lab Work

What is Gallstones?

What causes gallstones?

What is the best test for gallstones?

When should I get tested for gallstones?

References

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