(HealthDay News) -- Symptoms of gallstones are often called an "attack" because they occur suddenly. A typical attack can cause a steady pain in the upper abdomen that increases rapidly and lasts from 30 minutes to several hours; pain in the back between the shoulder blades; pain under the right shoulder; and/or nausea or vomiting.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, gallstone attacks often follow fatty meals, and may occur during the night. Other gallstone symptoms include: abdominal bloating, colic, belching, gas and indigestion.

Many people with gallstones have no symptoms. These patients are said to be asymptomatic, and these stones are called "silent stones." They do not interfere with gallbladder, liver, or pancreas function, and do not need treatment. Often, silent stones are discovered when tests are run for other ailments.