Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis is a condition where the gallbladder becomes inflamed, usually because a gallstone blocks the flow of bile.
When this blockage happens, bile gets trapped inside the gallbladder, leading to swelling, infection, and severe pain.
It often starts as a typical gallstone problem but becomes more serious when the pain doesn’t go away and keeps getting worse.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
- Continuous abdominal pain (not coming and going)
- Fever or chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating or heaviness
- Pain after eating, especially fatty food
Warning signs (don’t ignore):
- Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)
- High fever
- Severe pain lasting more than a few hours
These may indicate a complication or infection.
What Causes Cholecystitis?
A gallstone gets stuck in the gallbladder outlet.
This leads to:
- Bile buildup
- Increased pressure
- Inflammation
- Possible infection
Less common causes include:
- Severe infections
- Injury or trauma
- Long periods without eating (in hospitalized patients)
Cholecystitis treatment at Lifeline Clinic
Comprehensive Evaluation
Accurate Diagnosis
Personalized Treatment
Treatment for Cholecystitis Disease
Doctors usually diagnose it with:
Ultrasound
- First and most important test
- Shows gallstones and inflammation
Blood Tests
- Check for infection and inflammation
CT Scan (if needed)
- Used in complicated cases
When to seek medical help?
Seek medical help if you have:
- Severe abdominal pain lasting more than 2–3 hours
- Fever with stomach pain
- Vomiting that doesn’t stop
- Yellowing of eyes or skin
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Frequently Asked Questions
I have severe pain on the right side that isn’t going away. Could this be cholecystitis?
If the pain is constant, severe, and lasts for hours, especially with fever or nausea, it could be cholecystitis and needs urgent medical evaluation.
How is cholecystitis different from gallstones?
Gallstones may not cause symptoms, but cholecystitis happens when a stone blocks the gallbladder and causes inflammation and infection.
Do I need surgery for cholecystitis?
In most cases, yes. Surgery removes the gallbladder and prevents future attacks.
Can I live normally after gallbladder removal?
Yes. Most people live completely normal lives without a gallbladder, with minimal dietary adjustments.