Stop eating and drinking anything except small sips of water if needed
Apply a warm compress or heating pad to the upper right or upper middle abdomen for 15–20 minutes at a time
Avoid fatty, greasy, or fried foods and alcohol during the episode and afterward
Use prescribed medications if you already have them from your clinician (follow label instructions)
Consider an over-the-counter pain reliever if you can take it safely: acetaminophen/paracetamol as directed
Avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen/naproxen) if you have a history of ulcers, kidney disease, are on blood thinners, or were told not to use them
Do not take additional doses of pain medicines more often than directed
Try gentle movement or position changes (some people find relief lying on the left side or sitting upright)
If nausea is present, sip clear fluids and avoid heavy meals
Seek emergency care immediately if you have any of the following:
Fever or chills
Yellowing of the skin/eyes (jaundice)
Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
Pain lasting more than 4–6 hours or severe worsening pain
Dark urine or pale stools
Chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting
Signs of dehydration
Contact urgent care or your doctor the same day if symptoms are recurring, even if they improve
If you have been diagnosed with gallstones or biliary disease, call your clinician for an episode plan