Health Tip: Am I at Risk for Gallstones?

(HealthDay News) -- Gallstones are small, pebble-like substances that form in the gallbladder, causing pain and discomfort.

The U.S. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse says risk factors for developing gallstones include:

• Being a woman, especially if you are pregnant, taking birth control pills or on hormone replacement therapy.

• Having a family history of gallstones.

• Being of native American or Mexican heritage.

• Being overweight or eating a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet.

• Losing weight quickly.

• Being 60 or older.

• Being diabetic.

• Taking a cholesterol-lowering drug.