Cholecystitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis is the medical term for inflammation of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ under your liver. It stores bile, which helps your body digest fat. When the gallbladder becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and other symptoms. Often, cholecystitis needs quick medical care. Early treatment can help prevent serious problems.

Causes of Cholecystitis

Most cases of cholecystitis happen when a gallstone blocks the tube leading out of the gallbladder. However, other causes are possible. Knowing the causes can help you understand your risk.

Gallstones: These are hard pieces that form in the gallbladder. They can block the flow of bile.

Infections: Sometimes, bacteria can infect the gallbladder and cause swelling.

Injury: An injury to the belly area can lead to cholecystitis.

Tumors: Rarely, a growth can block the bile ducts and cause inflammation.

Other illnesses: Some health problems, like diabetes, can increase your risk.

Because gallstones are the most common cause, keeping your gallbladder healthy is important.

Common Symptoms

Cholecystitis symptoms can start suddenly. While some people may have mild signs, others can feel very sick. Recognizing symptoms early can help you get the right care.

Sudden pain in the upper right side of the belly

Pain that spreads to the right shoulder or back

Nausea or vomiting

Fever or chills

Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Loss of appetite

Sometimes, the pain gets worse after eating, especially fatty foods. If you notice these signs, you should seek help quickly.

How Cholecystitis is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose cholecystitis. Early diagnosis can help prevent problems. If you visit a clinic, your doctor may:

Ask about your symptoms and medical history

Do a physical exam to check for belly pain

Order blood tests to look for infection or signs of inflammation

Use imaging tests, like an ultrasound, to see the gallbladder

Sometimes, order a CT scan or a special scan called HIDA to check bile flow

Because cholecystitis can look like other illnesses, these tests help confirm the diagnosis. If you are searching for “how is cholecystitis diagnosed,” these are the main steps doctors follow.

Treatment Options

Treating cholecystitis often starts in the hospital. Quick care lowers the risk of problems. Your doctor will choose the best treatment based on your health and the cause.

Fasting: You may not eat or drink for a while to rest your gallbladder.

IV fluids: These keep you hydrated.

Pain medicine: This helps control discomfort.

Antibiotics: If infection is present, you will get medicine to fight it.

Surgery: In many cases, doctors remove the gallbladder. This is called a cholecystectomy. Surgery is often done using small cuts (laparoscopic surgery).

Sometimes, if you are too sick for surgery right away, doctors may drain the gallbladder first. After you recover, surgery may be planned later. If you need “cholecystitis treatment in your city,” look for hospitals with experienced surgeons.

Prevention Tips

While not all cases can be prevented, some steps may lower your risk of gallbladder inflammation.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fiber

Avoid high-fat and fried foods

Maintain a healthy weight

Lose weight slowly if needed; quick weight loss can raise your risk

Stay active with regular exercise

Because gallstones are a main cause, these tips can help keep your gallbladder healthy.

When to See a Doctor

If you have sudden belly pain, fever, or yellow skin, you should see a doctor right away. Early care can prevent serious problems. Even if your symptoms seem mild, it is better to get checked. Cholecystitis can get worse quickly. Therefore, do not wait if you feel unwell.

If you suspect cholecystitis, consult a healthcare specialist for personalized advice.