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Cholecystitis
Urgent
Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, most often caused by a gallstone blocking the cystic duct. It commonly produces persistent pain in the upper right or upper middle abdomen and may cause tenderness, fever, nausea, or vomiting. The inflammation can become serious if the blockage persists or infection develops.
Body System
Digestive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Cholecystitis requires prompt medical assessment. Seek urgent care for persistent right upper abdominal pain, fever, repeated vomiting, jaundice, severe tenderness, or rapidly worsening illness. Severe abdominal pain with fainting, confusion, or other signs of serious deterioration requires emergency assessment.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, most often caused by a gallstone blocking the cystic duct. It commonly produces persistent pain in the upper right or upper middle abdomen and may cause tenderness, fever, nausea, or vomiting. The inflammation can become serious if the blockage persists or infection develops.
Symptoms 3
Bloating
Fever
Vomiting
Causes 2
Cholecystitis most commonly occurs when a gallstone blocks the cystic duct, preventing normal drainage of bile from the gallbladder. Continued blockage can cause irritation and inflammation of the gallbladder wall and may lead to infection. Less commonly, inflammation occurs without gallstones, particularly during severe illness, trauma, prolonged fasting, or other serious medical conditions.
Infection
Inflammation
Risk Factors
Risk factors for gallstones and cholecystitis include increasing age, obesity, rapid weight loss, pregnancy, a family history of gallstones, and certain metabolic conditions. Some dietary and hormonal factors may also contribute. People who have previously had gallstones are at increased risk of recurrent gallbladder problems.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is based on the history and pattern of abdominal pain, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging. Ultrasound is commonly used to detect gallstones, gallbladder wall thickening, fluid around the gallbladder, or other signs of inflammation. Additional imaging such as a HIDA scan or CT may be used when the diagnosis remains uncertain.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Reducing major weight fluctuations, maintaining a healthy body weight, staying physically active, and following a balanced diet may help reduce the risk of gallstones and related gallbladder problems
People with recurrent upper abdominal pain, especially after meals, should seek medical evaluation
Prompt treatment of gallstone disease may help prevent complications
Prevention Guidance
Reducing major weight fluctuations, maintaining a healthy body weight, staying physically active, and following a balanced diet may help reduce the risk of gallstones and related gallbladder problems. People with recurrent upper abdominal pain, especially after meals, should seek medical evaluation. Prompt treatment of gallstone disease may help prevent complications.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Boiled Vegetables
Easy to digest.
Fresh Fruits
Provide nutrients and fiber.
Low Fat Dairy
Reduce gallbladder workload.
Whole Grains
Support digestion.
Foods to Avoid
Fried Foods
May trigger gallbladder symptoms.
High Fat Foods
Increase gallbladder workload.
Processed Foods
May worsen symptoms.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is inflammation of the gallbladder.
Gallstones are the most common cause.
Right upper abdominal pain, fever, and nausea may occur.
Ultrasound and blood tests are commonly used.
Yes, gallbladder removal may be required in some cases.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.