What is cholecystitis?
Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats.
This condition usually happens when bile cannot drain properly, most often because of gallstones. When bile becomes trapped, the gallbladder can become swollen, irritated, and sometimes infected.
Gallstones are the most common cause of cholecystitis. Other causes can include infections, tumors blocking bile flow, reduced blood supply to the gallbladder, or thickened bile called sludge. Certain health conditions, pregnancy, and rapid weight loss may increase risk.
Symptoms
Symptoms often begin suddenly and may become severe without treatment.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
- Pain that spreads to the back or right shoulder
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever or chills
- Bloating
- Tenderness in the abdomen
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
How is it diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Blood tests may help look for infection or signs of liver problems. Imaging tests such as an ultrasound are commonly used to check for gallstones and inflammation. In some cases, additional tests like CT scans, MRI/MRCP, HIDA scans, or ERCP may be needed to evaluate bile flow and confirm the diagnosis.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the inflammation and the cause of the blockage. Many people need hospital care to control pain, treat infection, and rest the gallbladder.
Treatment may include:
- IV fluids
- Antibiotics
- Pain medicine
- Temporary fasting or a low-fat diet
- Drainage procedures if surgery must wait
In many cases, surgery to remove the gallbladder is recommended. Most people recover well and can live normally without a gallbladder.
