Cholecystitis Explained: Types of Gallbladder Inflammation and Management

What is Cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis means inflammation of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ under your liver. It stores bile, which helps digest fat. When the gallbladder becomes swollen or irritated, it can cause pain and other health problems. Often, cholecystitis happens suddenly and needs quick medical care. Because of this, it is important to know the signs and seek help early.

Causes of Cholecystitis

Most cases of cholecystitis are due to gallstones. Gallstones are small, hard pieces that block the flow of bile. However, other causes can also lead to gallbladder inflammation.

Gallstones: These block the tube (duct) that carries bile from the gallbladder.

Infections: Sometimes, bacteria can infect the gallbladder.

Injury: Damage from surgery or trauma can cause swelling.

Tumors: Growths may block bile flow and cause inflammation.

Serious illness: Conditions like diabetes or severe infections can increase risk.

Because gallstones are the most common cause, keeping your gallbladder healthy is important.

Common Symptoms

Cholecystitis symptoms can appear suddenly. Early treatment helps prevent serious problems. Watch for these signs:

Pain in the upper right side of your belly

Pain that spreads to your right shoulder or back

Nausea or vomiting

Fever or chills

Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Loss of appetite

Sometimes, the pain gets worse after eating fatty foods. If you notice these symptoms, seek medical help right away.

How Cholecystitis is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose cholecystitis. First, they ask about your symptoms and health history. Next, they may do a physical exam. To confirm the diagnosis, doctors often use tests such as:

Blood tests: These check for signs of infection or inflammation.

Ultrasound: This imaging test shows the gallbladder and any gallstones.

CT scan: Sometimes, doctors use this to get a clearer picture.

HIDA scan: This test checks how well your gallbladder works.

Because early diagnosis is key, do not delay if you have symptoms. Many people ask, “How is cholecystitis diagnosed?” These tests help doctors find the cause and plan treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment for cholecystitis depends on how severe it is. Most people need to stay in the hospital for care. Common treatments include:

Fasting (no food or drink) to rest the gallbladder

IV fluids to prevent dehydration

Pain medicine to ease discomfort

Antibiotics to treat infection

Surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy), if needed

For many, surgery is the best way to prevent future attacks. However, your doctor will decide what is right for you. If you are looking for gallbladder inflammation treatment, talk to a healthcare provider about your options.

Prevention Tips

While you cannot prevent all cases, you can lower your risk of cholecystitis. Try these tips:

Eat a healthy, balanced diet

Maintain a healthy weight

Exercise regularly

Avoid rapid weight loss

Limit fatty and fried foods

Because prevention is easier than treatment, these steps can help keep your gallbladder healthy. Many people search for cholecystitis prevention, and these habits are a good start.

When to See a Doctor

Cholecystitis can become serious if not treated quickly. See a doctor right away if you have:

Severe belly pain that does not go away

Fever with pain

Yellow skin or eyes

Repeated vomiting

Because fast care can prevent problems, do not wait if you notice these signs. Early treatment leads to better outcomes.

Consult a healthcare specialist for personalized advice on cholecystitis.