Gallstones vs. Appendicitis — What's the Difference?

Gallstones are crystalline deposits that form in the gallbladder, often composed of cholesterol or bilirubin. These stones can block the bile ducts, leading to sharp pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after eating fatty foods. Appendicitis, on the other hand, is characterized by inflammation of the appendix, a small organ attached to the large intestine, which can cause severe pain in the lower right abdomen, fever, and nausea.

The symptoms of gallstones may include intermittent pain known as biliary colic, nausea, vomiting, and digestion problems. These symptoms often flare up after meals. In contrast, appendicitis symptoms start with pain around the navel, which then moves to the lower right abdomen, becoming sharper and more severe. Appendicitis may also be accompanied by loss of appetite, fever, and an inability to pass gas.

Gallstones are diagnosed through ultrasound or other imaging tests that visualize the stones within the gallbladder. Treatment may involve medication to dissolve the stones, lifestyle changes, or surgery to remove the gallbladder. Appendicitis is typically diagnosed based on physical examination, blood tests to check for infection, and imaging tests like an ultrasound or CT scan. The primary treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal of the appendix.

Gallstones can sometimes be managed or treated without surgery, while appendicitis usually requires an urgent surgical intervention known as an appendectomy to prevent rupture of the appendix, which can lead to a serious infection called peritonitis.

Both conditions necessitate medical attention, but the urgency and type of treatment differ significantly. Gallstones may be monitored or treated electively, whereas appendicitis is considered a medical emergency that requires prompt surgical treatment to prevent complications.