Doctor explains Acute Cholecystitis (Gall bladder inflammation) | Causes, symptoms, treatment & more

In this article, we will delve into the critical aspects of gallbladder inflammation, medically known as cholecystitis. This condition, while often overlooked, is quite common and can lead to significant health issues if not properly managed. Understanding cholecystitis, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, potential complications, and prevention strategies is essential for anyone looking to maintain their gallbladder health.

What is Cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis refers to the inflammation of the gallbladder, a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. The primary function of the gallbladder is to store bile produced by the liver, which is then released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. When an obstruction or infection occurs in the gallbladder or bile ducts, it can lead to inflammation, pain, and swelling, resulting in cholecystitis.

Cholecystitis can be classified into two main types:

• Acute
• Chronic

Acute cholecystitis is characterized by sudden onset and urgent symptoms, while chronic cholecystitis involves long-standing inflammation. In this discussion, we will primarily focus on acute cholecystitis, which is often caused by gallstones—responsible for approximately 95% of all cholecystitis cases.

Potential Symptoms of Cholecystitis

The hallmark symptom of acute cholecystitis is severe upper abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right quadrant. This pain may radiate to the right shoulder blade or back and can be sharp, dull, or crampy. It often intensifies with deep breathing. Other common symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever (over 100°F) in some cases
• Abdominal bloating
• Muscle stiffness in the right abdomen
• General weakness and fatigue, especially in older adults

In contrast, chronic cholecystitis symptoms tend to be less severe and may include intermittent episodes of abdominal pain and nausea, particularly after consuming rich or fatty meals.

Risk Factors for Cholecystitis

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing cholecystitis, particularly gallstones. These risk factors include:

• Female gender
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Rapid weight loss
• Age over 40
• Ethnic background (Hispanic or Native American descent)

Diagnosis of Cholecystitis

Diagnosing cholecystitis typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. A healthcare provider may perform a Murphy's sign test, which involves pressing on the upper right abdomen while the patient takes a deep breath. This maneuver can elicit pain indicative of cystitis. Additional diagnostic tests may include:

• Blood tests (Complete Blood Count and Liver Function Tests)
• Imaging studies (abdominal ultrasound, endoscopic ultrasound, or CT scan) to identify gallstones or other abnormalities.

Treatment of Acute Cholecystitis

If diagnosed with acute cholecystitis, hospitalization is often necessary for treatment. Initial management typically involves:

• Fasting to relieve strain on the gallbladder
• Intravenous (IV) fluids to prevent dehydration
• Pain management
• Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected

In many cases, surgical intervention may be recommended to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) to prevent recurrence and reduce the risk of complications. There are two primary surgical approaches:

1. Open Cholecystectomy: Involves a single incision in the abdomen.
2. Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Utilizes several small incisions and specialized instruments for a minimally invasive approach.

For patients who are not candidates for surgery, a procedure to drain fluid from the gallbladder may be performed.

Potential Complications

Without appropriate treatment, acute cholecystitis can lead to severe complications, including:

• Gangrenous cholecystitis (tissue death)
• Perforated gallbladder (leading to peritonitis)
• Abscess formation

These complications may necessitate emergency surgery and can be life-threatening.

Preventing Cholecystitis

While not all cases of cholecystitis can be prevented, certain lifestyle modifications can reduce the risk of gallstones and, consequently, cholecystitis. These include:

• Adopting a healthy, balanced diet
• Reducing high-cholesterol food intake
• Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise
• Avoiding rapid weight loss, which can disrupt bile chemistry

For more detailed information on gallbladder health and chronic cholecystitis, please refer to the resources provided in the video description.

By understanding cholecystitis and its implications, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your gallbladder health and overall well-being. If you experience any symptoms associated with acute cholecystitis, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Please note this is a general educational resource only - and not individual clinical advice. For all individual clinical questions always speak to your own healthcare provider.