Biliary Colic

A person who has intense, sudden pain in the upper right part of the abdomen may be experiencing biliary colic, a discomfort that appears when the flow of bile from the gallbladder is temporarily obstructed, often due to the presence of stones. The pain usually comes in episodes.

Common symptoms:

• Pain in the upper right abdomen, sometimes radiating to the shoulder or back
• Nausea or vomiting
• Discomfort that can arise after large or fatty meals

When to seek care? If the pain is very intense, is accompanied by fever or yellowish coloring of the skin, it is advisable to seek attention promptly.

Who evaluates it? The gastroenterologist studies diseases of the gallbladder and bile ducts, and in children the pediatrician is the first point of contact. In the case of repeated episodes of abdominal pain, a professional evaluation helps identify the cause.