This article was medically reviewed by Nguyễn Huyền Nhung, MD, MSc – Gastroenterology Specialist at the Department of Internal Medicine, Vinmec International General Hospital, Hai Phong.
Gallstones often develop silently without noticeable symptoms until they grow larger, irritate the gallbladder lining, or obstruct the bile ducts, leading to inflammation or blockages. At this point, patients may experience significant pain. So, how can gallstone-related pain be alleviated?
1. What Are the Symptoms of Gallstone-Related Pain?
Patients with gallstones typically experience the following pain patterns:
Intermittent pain in the Right hypochondriac abdomen, accompanied by nausea and bloating:
This symptom is common with sludge-like gallstones or small solid stones in the gallbladder. Pain often occurs after consuming fatty or overly large meals, as gallstones obstruct the flow of bile to the small intestine, disrupting fat digestion.
Severe and constant abdominal pain in the epigastrium and right hypochondrium, possibly radiating to the shoulder, accompanied by fever:
This symptom often indicates complications such as gallbladder inflammation, bile duct infection, or bile duct blockage. In severe cases, patients may bend forward or press on the right upper abdomen to alleviate pain, but the discomfort typically intensifies over time.
Dull, localized pain in the right flank area:
This pain pattern suggests gallstones rubbing against the gallbladder wall due to increased size or movement. The pain is mild, persistent, and intermittent, often misinterpreted as a digestive issue.
2. Quick Remedies for Gallstone Pain at Home
Gallstone pain can be debilitating and exhausting. If immediate medical attention is not available, the following home remedies may help alleviate the discomfort:
- Use a Heating Pad
Place a heating pad over the right abdominal area and keep it there for 20–30 minutes. Adjust the temperature to a comfortable level to prevent burns. Heat can help relax the smooth muscles of the bile ducts, improving bile flow and reducing obstruction-related pain.
- Lie in a Fetal Position
To ease gallstone pain, adopt a curled position by bringing your knees close to your chest. This posture can provide temporary relief and make the pain more manageable.
- Drink Apple Cider Vinegar
The acidic properties of apple cider vinegar may help relieve gallstone pain. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 250ml of apple juice and drink it daily. However, this method is not recommended for individuals with a history of or active gastric ulcers, as the acid can aggravate stomach pain.
- Consume Fresh Turmeric Water
Turmeric contains curcumin, a natural remedy that supports digestive health and can relieve gallstone-related pain. Steep fresh turmeric in boiling water and drink it to alleviate bile duct or gallbladder-related pain. Turmeric also helps reduce inflammation caused by bile duct blockages.
- Apply Castor Oil Packs
Castor oil is often used for hot compresses to treat various types of pain, including pain caused by gallstones. Castor oil can relieve pain and reduce spasms of the gallbladder and bile ducts. Castor oil can be absorbed through the skin, so using castor oil to apply to the gallbladder when pain occurs helps to effectively relieve pain. However, castor oil has a rather unpleasant smell and can stain clothes, towels, sheets, etc. Therefore, caution should be exercised when using it. The patient dips a clean towel in castor oil. Wring out the excess oil and fold the towel in half. Then lie on your back and place the towel soaked in oil on the gallbladder area, then place a layer of plastic wrap on the towel containing castor oil and place a warm, damp towel on top. Finally, place a hot water bottle on top and cover with a blanket. The patient lies still, breathes slowly and deeply, and applies the compress for 30 minutes, effectively reducing pain caused by gallstones.
- Take Pain Relievers:
Certain medications, such as Papaverine or Mobic, can effectively alleviate gallstone-related pain. However, any medication should only be used under a doctor’s supervision to ensure safety and minimize side effects.
Note: These methods provide temporary symptom relief. Gallstone pain may recur, and complications can arise if gallstones remain untreated. Patients should seek long-term solutions for lasting pain relief and prevention of recurrence.
3. Long-Term Solutions for Gallstone Pain Relief
Scientific studies have shown that using herbal remedies at home can not only reduce gallstone-related pain but also help dissolve stones and alleviate other symptoms like bloating, indigestion, and jaundice.
A combination of 8 medicinal herbs (Curcuma zedoaria, Gardenia jasminoides, Phellodendron, Bupleurum, Adenosma caeruleum, Phyllanthus amarus, Fructus aurantii, and Desmodium styracifolium) has been found to effectively reduce gallbladder pain within 1–3 weeks. Many patients report noticeable improvement within the first few days. These herbs not only relieve pain but also gradually dissolve gallstones, preventing recurrence.
- Curcuma zedoaria, Gardenia jasminoides, and Desmodium styracifolium: Enhance bile duct movement, improve bile flow, and alleviate symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, indigestion, and jaundice.
- Phellodendron and Bupleurum: Have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, preventing complications like gallbladder or bile duct infections.
- Adenosma caeruleum, Phyllanthus amarus, and Fructus aurantii: Support liver function and bile production, softening and gradually dissolving gallstones, reducing the likelihood of recurrence.
Patients are encouraged to use these herbs early, ideally when gallstones are first detected. Products containing these 8 medicinal herbs are now available and licensed for use, offering a convenient solution for gallstone management.
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