Gallbladder symptoms can be uncomfortable and sometimes worrying, particularly when pain occurs suddenly or repeatedly. Gallstones are a common finding and may be discovered during an ultrasound scan requested for upper abdominal discomfort or digestive symptoms.
At Ultramsono Private Ultrasound Clinic, gallbladder ultrasound examinations are performed professionally to help identify gallstones and assess the gallbladder in a clear, non-invasive way.
What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are solid particles that can form inside the gallbladder when substances in bile, such as cholesterol or bilirubin, become concentrated. They vary in size and number and may be present without causing symptoms in some individuals.
Gallstones are relatively common and can be found during imaging even when symptoms are mild or intermittent.
Common Symptoms Associated with Gallstones
People may experience gallbladder-related symptoms such as:
- Intermittent pain in the upper right abdomen
- Discomfort after eating fatty meals
- Nausea or bloating
- Pain that may radiate to the back or right shoulder
- Episodes of abdominal discomfort that come and go
Symptoms can vary significantly from person to person, and not all gallstones cause pain.
Why Ultrasound Is Used for Gallstones
Ultrasound is the first-line imaging method for assessing the gallbladder. It is widely used because it is:
- Non-invasive and painless
- Does not involve radiation
- Able to detect gallstones with good accuracy
- Useful for assessing gallbladder wall thickness and surrounding structures
Ultrasound can also help evaluate whether features suggest inflammation or other gallbladder-related changes.
What a Gallbladder Ultrasound Can Assess
A gallbladder ultrasound may assess:
- Presence, size, and number of gallstones
- Gallbladder wall appearance
- Signs of biliary obstruction
- Common bile duct calibre (when visible)
- Surrounding liver structures
It cannot determine whether symptoms are caused by gallstones, but it provides valuable imaging information to support clinical assessment.
What to Expect During Your Ultrasound Appointment
At Ultramsono, your appointment includes:
- A brief discussion about symptoms and medical history
- A professional abdominal ultrasound examination
- Clear explanation of findings in understandable language
- A written report provided after the scan
You may be asked to fast prior to the scan to allow optimal gallbladder visualisation.
Is Gallbladder Ultrasound Safe?
Ultrasound is a well-established imaging technique that uses sound waves rather than radiation. When performed by trained professionals, it is considered safe and suitable for repeated use if clinically required.
After the Scan: What Happens Next?
Following the scan, you may be advised to:
- Discuss results with your GP
- Consider referral to a specialist if required
- Monitor symptoms or arrange follow-up imaging
- Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or change
Private ultrasound imaging supports clinical care but does not replace medical evaluation or NHS services.
Why Choose Ultramsono Private Ultrasound Clinic?
- Experienced and fully qualified ultrasound practitioners
- Calm, professional, and discreet environment
- Clear communication with no unnecessary medical claims
- Flexible private appointments
- Reports suitable for sharing with your GP or specialist
Contact Ultramsono Private Ultrasound Clinic
📞 Call or WhatsApp: 07828 668209
📧 Email: info@ultramsono.co.uk
🌐 Visit: www.ultramsono.co.uk
Ultramsono – Medical Imaging by Ultram Ltd
📍 Located in Kensington Olympia, London
