When gallstones get stuck while traveling through the duct (tube) to the stomach, they block the outflow of bile, which causes the gallbladder to spasm. This usually leads to sharp pain, like being cut by a knife, under the rib cage in the upper right side or center of the abdomen.

What causes gallbladder flare up?

Also called cholecystitis, this can happen for several reasons, including trauma, illness, infection, tumors or when bile builds up in your gallbladder from gallstones. Less often, other culprits can include tumors, certain bacteria, or problems in your bile ducts.

What foods can trigger gallbladder attack?

Foods that may trigger gallbladder attacks include: