What is a gallstone?

A gallstone is accurately defined as a hardened deposit that forms within the fluid of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is an organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. When the components of bile — such as cholesterol, bilirubin, and bile salts — become imbalanced, they can crystallize and harden, leading to the formation of gallstones. These stones can vary in size and may cause varying degrees of discomfort or complications if they block the bile ducts. Understanding the composition and formation of gallstones is essential for recognizing related health conditions and potential treatments.