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 digest fat. When cholecystitis happens, the gallbladder becomes swollen and painful. Often, this condition is caused by gallstones blocking the bile duct. However, other reasons can also lead to gallbladder inflammation. Cholecystitis can be sudden (acute) or last a long time (chronic). Early treatment is important to avoid serious problems.

Causes of Cholecystitis

Many things can cause cholecystitis. Most often, gallstones are the main reason. These stones can block the flow of bile. As a result, the gallbladder gets irritated and inflamed. But, there are other causes too.

Gallstones: These are hard pieces that form in the gallbladder and block bile flow.

Bile duct problems: Scarring or tumors can block the duct.

Infections: Bacterial infections can cause swelling.

Injury: Damage from surgery or trauma can lead to cholecystitis.

Serious illness: Some health problems, like diabetes, increase risk.

Sometimes, no clear cause is found. Still, gallstones remain the most common reason for cholecystitis.

Common Symptoms

Cholecystitis symptoms can appear quickly. Usually, pain is the first sign. But, other symptoms may also develop. Knowing these signs helps you seek care early.

Sudden pain in the upper right 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

Feeling bloated

Sometimes, the pain gets worse after eating fatty foods. If you notice these symptoms, it is important to get medical help soon.

How Cholecystitis is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose cholecystitis. First, they ask about your symptoms and health history. Next, they do a physical exam. Often, they press on your belly to check for pain. But, tests are also needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Blood tests: These check for signs of infection or liver problems.

Ultrasound: This scan shows if the gallbladder is swollen or has stones.

CT scan: Sometimes, doctors use this to get a clearer picture.

HIDA scan: This test checks how well the gallbladder works.

With these tests, doctors can find out if you have cholecystitis and decide on the best treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment for cholecystitis depends on how severe it is. Early care can prevent problems. Usually, doctors start with simple steps. But, sometimes surgery is needed.

Hospital care: Most people need to stay in the hospital for treatment.

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

IV fluids: These keep you hydrated.

Pain medicine: Doctors give medicine to control pain.

Antibiotics: These treat or prevent infection.

Surgery: If needed, doctors remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). This is common if gallstones cause the problem.

Most people recover well after treatment. However, quick care lowers the risk of serious issues.

Prevention Tips

While you cannot always prevent cholecystitis, some steps can lower your risk. Healthy habits help keep your gallbladder working well.

Eat a balanced diet with less fat and more fiber

Maintain a healthy weight

Lose weight slowly if needed

Stay active with regular exercise

Drink enough water each day

By following these tips, you can help prevent gallstones and reduce your chance of gallbladder inflammation.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, cholecystitis can become serious — knowing when to seek help is crucial.

If you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, don’t wait. Consult a doctor immediately if you notice:

High fever with belly pain

Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Repeated vomiting

Pain that doesn’t go away

Early treatment can prevent complications such as infection or a ruptured gallbladder.

Your health matters — visit Revive Mult speciality Hospital for expert diagnosis and personalised gallbladder care.