Gallbladder stones, also known as gallstones, are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that form in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ located on the right side of your abdomen, just below your liver. It stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver, which helps in the digestion of fatty foods. Gallstones vary in size and can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball. Some people may have just one gallstone, while others may have several. Gallstones can be either solid or filled with liquid. Gallstones are usually caused by an imbalance in the chemical composition of bile, or an obstruction of the gallbladder or bile ducts. Common risk factors for gallstones include obesity, being female, age, pregnancy, diabetes, and certain medications. Symptoms of gallstones include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. If the stones block the flow of bile out of the gallbladder, a person may also experience clay-colored stools, dark urine, and itchy skin. Treatment for gallstones depends on the size and number of stones, as well as the severity of the symptoms. In some cases, the stones may pass on their own without treatment. However, if the stones are causing severe symptoms or complications, medical intervention may be needed. Treatment options include medications, shock wave lithotripsy, and surgery. If you have any of the symptoms of gallstones, it is important to see your doctor for an evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent more serious complications from developing.