Cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder, a small digestive organ located beneath the liver. This condition primarily occurs when a gallstone temporarily blocks the cystic duct, the tube through which bile flows from the gallbladder into the small intestine. Bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, aids in the digestion of fats. When the flow of bile is obstructed, it can cause bile to accumulate in the gallbladder, leading to inflammation and infection. In some cases, cholecystitis can also develop without the presence of gallstones, a condition known as acalculous cholecystitis, which is less common but can occur due to other medical complications such as trauma, burns, or serious illnesses.
Symptoms of cholecystitis can vary, but typically include severe pain in the upper right abdomen, which may extend to the back or right shoulder blade. Other common symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, and a tenderness of the abdomen to the touch. Chronic cholecystitis might present milder, recurrent symptoms related to fatty food consumption. Diagnosing cholecystitis usually involves a combination of ultrasound imaging to detect gallstones, blood tests to look for signs of infection, and sometimes more advanced imaging techniques like a hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan to check the functioning of the gallbladder.
Treatment options for cholecystitis primarily aim at reducing inflammation and managing pain, as well as addressing the underlying cause. In cases where gallstones are causing the blockage, surgery to remove the gallbladder, known as a cholecystectomy, is often recommended. This procedure is generally safe and effective, offering a permanent solution to prevent recurrence of cholecystitis. In acute cases, where surgery might be risky due to severe inflammation or patient health, doctors might temporarily relieve symptoms by draining the gallbladder or by using antibiotics to treat any infection.
Preventing cholecystitis mainly involves managing risk factors associated with gallstones, the most common cause of the condition. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and eating a balanced diet low in fats and cholesterol can help reduce the risk of gallstone formation. Individuals with other risk factors, such as those experiencing rapid weight loss or women taking contraceptives, should consult with healthcare providers for strategies to mitigate risks. Understanding the symptoms and seeking timely medical advice is crucial for managing cholecystitis effectively and can prevent complications such as gallbladder rupture or the spread of infection, known as sepsis.