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Understanding Cholecystitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Cholecystitis is a condition that causes swelling and irritation of the gallbladder, a small organ located in the right side of your abdomen near your liver. The gallbladder's main function is to store and release bile, a digestive juice that helps break down fats in your small intestine. When the path to your small intestine becomes blocked, bile can get trapped, leading to inflammation and pain.

Symptoms of Cholecystitis

The most common symptoms of cholecystitis include:

  • Sudden, sharp pain in the upper right side of your abdomen

  • Pain in your back or below your right shoulder blade

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Fever

  • Bloating

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

  • Loose, light-colored bowel movements

Symptoms may worsen after consuming a high-fat meal. If your pain is severe and you can't find a comfortable position, seek immediate medical attention.

Causes and Risk Factors

The most common cause of cholecystitis is gallstones, which are solid lumps of bile that can block the path to the small intestine. Other causes include gallbladder sludge, tumors, poor blood supply to the gallbladder, and infections.

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing cholecystitis, such as:

  • Being a woman over 50 or a man over 60

  • Being overweight

  • Having diabetes, Crohn's disease, end-stage kidney disease, heart disease, hyperlipidemia, or sickle cell disease

  • Rapid weight loss

  • Consuming a diet high in fat and cholesterol

  • Having Native American, Hispanic, or Scandinavian ancestry

Diagnosing Cholecystitis

To diagnose cholecystitis, your doctor will examine you, ask about your symptoms, and likely order some tests. These may include blood tests to check for infection and liver function, as well as imaging tests such as an X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, HIDA scan, PTC, or ERCP. These tests help your doctor visualize your gallbladder, liver, and bile ducts to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Treatment Options

Treatment for cholecystitis may involve a hospital stay, during which you'll receive fluids through an IV, pain medication, and possibly antibiotics. In some cases, medications may be used to dissolve gallstones and prevent their recurrence.

The most common treatment for cholecystitis is surgery to remove the gallbladder, called a cholecystectomy. This procedure is considered low-risk and typically takes about an hour. You can live a healthy life without your gallbladder, as bile will flow directly from your liver to your small intestine.

Preventing Cholecystitis

To lower your risk of developing gallstones and cholecystitis, you can:

  • Lower your cholesterol levels

  • Exercise regularly

  • Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats (such as eggs, soybeans, and peanuts)

  • Maintain a healthy weight

  • If planning rapid weight loss, consult with your doctor to monitor your progress and consider bile acid pills to prevent gallstones

By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for cholecystitis, you can take steps to maintain your digestive health and seek prompt medical attention if necessary. If you experience severe abdominal pain or other concerning symptoms, don't hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider.

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