It is a common question whether gallstones float or sink in the toilet. Generally, most gallstones tend to sink due to their composition, but their buoyancy can vary. The specific makeup and density of a gallstone influence whether it floats, sinks, or remains suspended in water.
Understanding Gallstone Composition
Gallstones are solid formations that develop from bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. They are primarily composed of cholesterol, bilirubin, and calcium salts. Approximately 80% of gallstones are cholesterol stones, which form when there is an excess of cholesterol in the bile. Pigment stones, on the other hand, are mainly made of bilirubin, a waste product from red blood cell breakdown.
The varying proportions of these components directly affect a gallstone’s density. Cholesterol is less dense than calcium, so a gallstone with a higher cholesterol content may be less dense and potentially float. Conversely, stones with a higher concentration of calcium salts or bilirubin tend to be denser and are more likely to sink.
Why Gallstones Develop
Gallstones form when there is an imbalance in the chemical makeup of bile within the gallbladder. This imbalance can lead to the crystallization and hardening of substances like cholesterol or bilirubin into solid stones. One common cause is an excess of cholesterol in the bile, where the liver produces more cholesterol than the bile can dissolve.
Another factor contributing to their formation is the gallbladder not emptying properly or frequently enough, which can cause bile to become overly concentrated. Certain conditions can also increase bilirubin levels, leading to pigment stone formation. Risk factors for developing gallstones include being female, age 40 or older, obesity, rapid weight loss, and having a family history of gallstones.
What to Do if You Suspect You Passed a Gallstone
If you suspect you have passed a gallstone or are experiencing symptoms, seeking medical attention is important. Gallstones can cause sudden, severe abdominal pain, often in the upper right abdomen, which may radiate to the back or right shoulder. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). These symptoms, particularly persistent pain or a high temperature, indicate a potential blockage or infection that requires professional diagnosis.
A healthcare provider will likely conduct a physical examination and may order imaging tests like an abdominal ultrasound. Other tests, such as a CT scan, MRI, or blood tests, might be performed to check for infection, inflammation, or to assess the severity of any blockage. While some gallstones may pass without symptoms, others can lead to serious complications if they become lodged in bile ducts. A medical evaluation ensures proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent further health issues.