Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, most often caused by a gallstone blocking bile flow. When pain in the upper right abdomen lasts for hours and is accompanied by fever, nausea or vomiting, prompt medical evaluation is important. ^[1][2]

What is Cholecystitis?

The gallbladder stores bile made by the liver. In cholecystitis, bile cannot drain normally and the gallbladder becomes swollen and inflamed. While gallstones are the most common cause, the condition can also occur without stones in critically ill patients. ^[1][3]

What are the symptoms and what causes it?

Typical symptoms include right upper abdominal pain, tenderness, nausea, vomiting and fever. The pain may radiate to the back or right shoulder. Risk rises with gallstones, older age, obesity, rapid weight change and certain metabolic risk factors. ^[1][2][3]

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually starts with the clinical story, physical examination, blood tests and abdominal ultrasound. In some cases, CT, MRI-based imaging of the bile ducts or a HIDA scan helps confirm the diagnosis or look for complications. ^[1][2]

What are the treatment options?

Treatment often begins in hospital with fluids, pain control, bowel rest and antibiotics when infection is suspected. Many patients ultimately need gallbladder removal, especially if symptoms are clear or complications are developing. ^[1][2][4]

Possible complications and when to seek medical care

Untreated cholecystitis can lead to gangrene, perforation, abscess formation, generalized infection or bile duct problems. Urgent care is needed if pain lasts more than several hours, jaundice appears, vomiting continues or the person looks acutely unwell. ^[1][2][3]

What may help in daily life?

Do not try to manage ongoing severe abdominal pain at home for too long. Medical assessment is safer, especially if there is fever or vomiting. Long-term planning depends on the cause and the person’s overall surgical risk. ^[2][3]

Common mistakes during follow-up

Common mistakes include assuming it is only simple indigestion, delaying imaging and ignoring recurrent attacks after fatty meals. Repeated episodes can precede a more serious attack. ^[2][4]

FAQ

What is cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis is explained by its symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment plan. The most important step is matching the symptoms with the correct medical evaluation. ^[1][2]

When should I see a doctor for cholecystitis?

Seek medical review if symptoms are persistent, worsening, recurrent or clearly affecting daily life. Urgent review is needed when warning signs or severe symptoms are present. ^[1][2]

Can cholecystitis improve without treatment?

Some mild cases or symptom flares may settle, but not every condition should be watched at home. Improvement does not always mean the underlying problem has been resolved. ^[1][2]

How is cholecystitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually starts with a medical history and examination, then moves to targeted tests depending on the symptom pattern and suspected cause. ^[1][2]

Why does follow-up matter?

Follow-up helps confirm the diagnosis, assess response to treatment and detect complications or recurrence earlier. ^[1][2]