Cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) is a severe issue that can lead to serious complications if not managed properly.

Cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation)

The gallbladder is located on the right side of the abdomen under the liver, and it contains the fluid that is responsible for digesting the food. Cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) can be acute or chronic.

Causes of cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation)

• The most common cause for cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) is gallstones, which can block the tube that transfers bile from the gallbladder.
• Bile stasis: certain disorders, such as chronic liver disease, can make the bile flow stall.
• Biliary stricture: a disorder in the bile ducts may make them narrow and obstruct the bile flow.
• Biliary dyskinesia: a disease of the gallbladder that affects its motility.
• A cancer or tumor.
• Infections, such as AIDS.
• A serious disease that damages the blood vessels and affects the blood flow to the gallbladder.

Symptoms of cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation)

Symptoms of an inflamed gallbladder often manifest after a large or fatty meal, and they include:

• Severe pain in the upper right area of the abdomen or in the center.
• Fever.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• The pain can spread to the right shoulder or back.
• Bloating and tenderness in the abdomen.
• Weakness and fatigue.
• Cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) can lead to an infection due to the buildup of bile, damage in the liver or pancreas, decreased digestion and nutrient absorption, death of gallbladder tissue (gangrene), and gallbladder perforation.

Diagnosis of cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation)

• Blood tests.
• Imaging tests.
• Scanning the movement of the bile in the body.

Treatment of cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation)

• Most of the cases require hospitalization.
• Treating cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) involves fasting, IV fluids, antibiotics, removing the gallstones when needed, and cholecystectomy in some cases.
• The risk of cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) can be reduced by decreasing the risk of gallstones through maintaining a healthy weight, following a healthy diet, and losing weight slowly when needed.