Cholecystitis is a type of disease where the gallbladder gets inflamed. There are two main types: acute and chronic. Acute cholecystitis is often caused by gallstones blocking bile flow. This leads to pain in the abdomen, fever, and pain in the upper right side of the body.
Chronic cholecystitis happens when the gallbladder is inflamed for a long time. It’s usually because of gallstones or other health issues. If not treated, both types can cause severe problems like a gallbladder infection or even the tissue dying.
Key Takeaways:
- Cholecystitis means the gallbladder is inflamed.
- Gallstones usually cause acute cholecystitis, bringing symptoms such as stomach pain, fever, and upper right stomach pain.
- Chronic cholecystitis comes from ongoing gallbladder inflammation, often due to gallstones or other conditions.
- If left alone, acute and chronic cholecystitis can lead to dangerous issues.
- Doctors find and treat cholecystitis using exams, tests, and imaging.
Types and Symptoms of Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis comes in two types: acute and chronic. Acute cholecystitis happens fast, often because of gallstones. These stones block a duct, causing the gallbladder to get inflamed. It brings a mix of symptoms.
The main sign is pain in the stomach area. People feel this pain as sharp or like a cramp. It’s mainly in the upper right side. The ache might also spread to the back or right shoulder. Important to know, not everyone feels the same amount of pain. For some, it’s just mild, for others, it’s severe.
Along with stomach pain, you might feel sick, throw up, and get gassy. These can happen if you just had a big, fatty meal. Many people with cholecystitis don’t feel like eating. The symptoms are too uncomfortable.
Having a fever is another sign you might have cholecystitis. An inflamed gallbladder can also mean an infection. Fever, chills, and sweating often come together.
If these symptoms sound familiar, see a doctor. Early treatment can lessen symptoms and stop things from getting worse.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Cholecystitis
Diagnosing cholecystitis involves a physical exam and tests. A doctor looks for signs of gallbladder inflammation. They do this after asking about your symptoms.
Ultrasound is often used to find gallstones. This test checks the gallbladder’s health. Blood tests add more details, like white blood cell count and liver function.
If cholecystitis is hard to diagnose, CT or MRI scans may be done. These give a more detailed look at the gallbladder.
The treatment for cholecystitis depends on how severe it is. Acute cases might need antibiotics and fasting. Intravenous fluids are given to keep healthy. Sometimes, surgery to remove the gallbladder is needed.
Science is also looking at using stem cells in cholecystitis treatment. This new area aims to heal the gallbladder without surgery. But, more studies are required to confirm its benefits and safety.