In this article, Marie-Louise Gustavsson, Kjell-Arne Ung, Åsa Nilsson and Eva Jakobsson Ung examine
patients’ experiences of developing, living with and being treated for gallstone disease. It also provides
insight, establishing a basis for nursing practice in hospitals and community care. Twenty-seven patients who
underwent a cholecystectomy were interviewed and the data were examined using qualitative content analysis.
The time before diagnosis was characterized by protracted, diffuse and fluctuating symptoms, followed by
dramatic pain attacks, resulting in considerable concern about the origin of the pain. While waiting for surgery,
the patients experienced constant uncertainty and fear of gallstone attacks, resulting in avoidance of social and
leisure-related activities as well as disruption at work. After the cholecystectomy, normalization of everyday
life appeared to comprise freedom from pain and distress, a return to normal eating habits and fulfilling
obligations. It is necessary to provide these patients with advice on pain management and nutrition, including
support aimed at reducing fear associated with gallstone attacks while awaiting surgery.