The majority of people with gallstones has no signs or symptoms and do not realize the presence of gallstones. (The gallstones are silent). These gallstones are often found as a result of tests (for example, ultrasound or x-rays of the abdomen) that are performed during the evaluation of non-gallbladder medical conditions. Symptoms can appear later in life, after many years without symptoms. Thus, over a period of five years, about 10% of patients with silent gallstones have symptoms. Once symptoms appear, they are likely to last and often get worse.