Cholecystitis: Types, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Cholecystitis typically develops when gallstones block the duct exiting the gallbladder, leading to bile buildup and inflammation. If left untreated, cholecystitis can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications, such as a ruptured gallbladder. Severe pain in the upper right or center belly area, fever, and nausea are the most common symptoms of Cholecystitis. In most cases, gallbladder removal surgery serves as the main treatment option.

What is Cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis means inflammation of the gallbladder, a small, pear-shaped organ situated beneath the liver on the abdomen’s right side. This organ stores bile, a digestive fluid that can break down fats in the small intestine.

After eating, the gallbladder discharges bile into the small intestine through tiny channels called bile ducts. If these ducts become blocked or infected, the gallbladder can develop pain, swelling, and inflammation.

Types of Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis or gallbladder inflammation is categorized as follows:

• Acute (immediate and abrupt)
• Chronic (long-lasting and sluggish)
• Calculous (in connection with gallstones)
• Acalculous (unrelated to gallstones)

Inflammation of the gallbladder may be a gradual reaction to a chronic issue or the rapid result of an urgent one. This is the distinction between chronic and acute cholecystitis.

Cholecystitis, both acute and chronic, is typically caused by gallstones. Thus, the majority of instances are “calculous“. To differentiate Cholecystitis unrelated to gallstones, medical professionals use the term “acalculous.”

Symptoms of Cholecystitis

• Pain in the Upper Abdomen: This type of pain, particularly in the upper right, is a common sign of acute cholecystitis. The right shoulder blade or back may also become affected. Pain in the gallbladder rises swiftly and might become severe at its peak. Deep breathing might worsen the acute, dull, or cramping sensation. Some misdiagnose it as a heart attack or even chest pain. A gallbladder attack is another term for acute gallbladder pain.
• Nausea and Vomiting: While nausea and vomiting are typical signs of a gallbladder attack, symptoms may be less severe in elderly individuals. Only a faint loss of appetite or feeling of illness may be experienced by them.
• Fever: Up to one-third of patients with acute cholecystitis may experience a fever above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. A fever could be a sign of a more serious inflammation or infection. It is less common in elderly adults.

Additionally, several other symptoms may contribute to the development of cholecystitis.

• Tenderness and abdominal distension (bloating).
• Right-side rigidity in the abdominal muscles.
• Exhaustion and weakness, particularly in the elderly.

The symptoms of chronic cholecystitis usually occur in phases and are less severe. An episode of biliary colic, which is characterized by nausea and abdominal pain, may occur following a rich or heavy meal. It takes more bile to digest foods high in fat. The gallbladder experiences more pressure due to its hardened squeezing due to signals from your digestive system to send more bile its way. This could last for a couple of hours.

Causes of Cholecystitis

The condition known as Cholecystitis is brought on by bile becoming lodged in the gallbladder. This occurs most frequently when solid lumps called gallstones obstruct a conduit that the gallbladder uses to discharge bile.

Bile accumulates in the gallbladder due to gallstone blockages in this tube. The gallbladder feels pressured and irritated as a result. Infection and inflammation may result from it.

Bile is stored in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is where gallstones form. Bile is used to make them. Some of the causes are as follows:

• Bacterial Infection in the Bile Duct System: This is one of the additional causes of cholecystitis. The system of drainage known as the bile duct system transports bile from the liver and gallbladder to the duodenum, the first segment of the small intestine.
• Liver or Pancreatic Tumors: A tumor can obstruct the gallbladder’s bile flow.
• A Decreased Flow of Blood to the Gallbladder: Diabetes can cause this to occur.
• Gallbladder Mucus: There’s not enough bile in the gallbladder to absorb this thick substance. The gallbladder becomes clogged with mucus. Pregnant women and those who have lost a significant amount of weight quickly are the main groups affected.

Treatment for Cholecystitis

Probably a hospital admission will be made to rest the affected gallbladder. The removal of the gallbladder may require surgery. The treatment line adopted by the hospital will include:

• Taking antibiotics, which are medications that combat germs.
• Keeping stomach empty till the symptoms go away.
• Receiving fluids and painkillers intravenously (IV).

However, gallbladder removal is advised if the Cholecystitis is brought on by gallstones in the gallbladder. Cholecystectomy is a common surgical procedure used for the removal of the gallbladder. Without the gallbladder, the body will function as intended, as it isn’t necessary to have a gallbladder to lead a healthy life.

In case you are unwell to have surgery, the gallbladder may be accessed through a tiny tube inserted through the skin. Other options are:

• Oral Dissolving Therapy: This is one possible additional therapeutic option. Bile acid-based medications are utilized to dissolve the stones.
• Low-fat food plan: When you’re permitted to resume eating.
• Medications: These serve to stop the formation of gallstones.

Risk Factors for Getting Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis, or gallbladder inflammation, is more common in women, individuals over 40, those who are overweight or obese, and people with a family history of gallstones or gallbladder disease.

• Age: The risk increases for individuals aged 40 and older.
• Sex: Women face a higher risk than men, likely due to hormonal influences.
• Weight: Being overweight or obese raises the likelihood of developing gallstones and cholecystitis.
• Family History: A genetic predisposition to gallstones or gallbladder disease can increase the risk.
• Ethnicity: People of Native American or Hispanic descent may have a greater susceptibility.

Smart Habits to Reduce the Risk of Cholecystitis

• Lose weight gradually to reduce the risk of gallstones, as rapid weight loss can increase their likelihood.
• Maintain a healthy weight by managing calorie intake and staying active, since excess weight raises the risk of gallstones.
• Live a balanced lifestyle by following a nutritious diet and exercising regularly to promote overall health and manage weight effectively.
• Choose a nutrient-rich diet, as consuming high-fat and low-fiber foods may lead to gallstone formation.
• Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to naturally lower the risk of gallstones.

The Importance of Prompt Treatment for Cholecystitis

Regardless of its type or cause, cholecystitis requires hospital treatment. While healthcare providers work to identify the underlying issue, they can offer immediate pain relief. Although gallstones are the most common cause, they are not always responsible. In most situations, doctors recommend surgery as the final treatment option, leading to positive outcomes for many patients. However, if left untreated, cholecystitis can result in serious complications.

Severe abdominal pain always requires medical attention. If the pain matches typical gallbladder symptoms, such as sudden and intense discomfort in the upper right abdomen along with nausea, visiting the emergency room is crucial. Even though the gallbladder is a small organ, stress on it can affect the entire biliary system. While cholecystitis may temporarily subside, its underlying causes remain. Without proper treatment, the condition will continue damaging the gallbladder, causing symptoms to return.

Frequently Asked Questions