15265 Gallbladder Swelling Inflammation Cholecystitis

Overview

Cholecystitis is swelling and redness of the gallbladder, a small organ under the liver that stores bile. This usually happens when a gallstone blocks the opening, causing bile to build up and the gallbladder to become inflamed.

Gallbladder problems are common. Cholecystitis is one of the most frequent reasons people need emergency abdominal surgery.

It can happen at any age, but it is more common in adults, especially women, people over 40, people with a family history of gallstones, and people who carry extra weight.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain in the upper right side of the belly, or between the shoulder blades
• Pain that often starts after eating a fatty meal and lasts for hours
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever or chills
• Tenderness when pressing on the belly

Symptoms in children

• Tummy pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Fussiness or not wanting to eat

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or unusual tiredness
• Poor appetite
• Mild fever without sharp belly pain
• Vague belly discomfort

Causes

Main causes

• A gallstone blocking the gallbladder opening
• Sludge or tiny stones irritating the gallbladder
• Infection in the bile ducts
• Reduced blood flow to the gallbladder (rare)

Risk factors

• Being female
• Being over 40
• Obesity or excess weight
• Rapid weight loss
• Diabetes
• Liver disease or certain blood disorders
• A family history of gallstones
• A diet high in fat and low in fiber

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe belly pain, fever, vomiting, or yellowing of your skin, seek urgent care
• Call your local emergency number if the pain is sudden and severe

Book a routine appointment if:

• See a doctor if you have repeated pain after meals, especially in the upper right side of your belly

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms, examine your belly, and usually order imaging tests and blood tests.

Tests that may be done

• An ultrasound, which is a painless scan that can show gallstones or inflammation
• Blood tests to check for infection and how well your liver is working
• Sometimes a HIDA scan or CT scan to look more closely at the gallbladder

What to expect at your appointment

You may feel some pressure from the ultrasound, and blood will be drawn from your arm. If your pain is severe, diagnosis may happen in the emergency department.

Treatment

Treatment usually starts in the hospital with fluids, pain relief, and antibiotics used for infections. Many people eventually need gallbladder removal surgery, but this may be delayed until the inflammation settles.

Self-care at home

• Rest and let your healthcare team guide your care
• Avoid eating very heavy or fatty meals until your doctor says it is safe
• Do not try to 'flush' your gallbladder with home remedies — this can be dangerous

Medical treatments

In hospital, you may receive fluids through a drip, medicines for pain and nausea, and antibiotics. Doctors may delay surgery for a few days or weeks until you are stronger. In some cases, a small tube may be placed to drain the gallbladder if someone is too unwell for surgery.

When is surgery considered?

When the gallbladder keeps causing problems, surgery to remove it is a common and often laparoscopic (keyhole) procedure. Most people recover well without a gallbladder because the body adapts.

Living with this condition

After recovery, most people return to normal life. Your liver still makes bile; it just flows directly into the intestine. Some people notice looser bowel movements, especially after fatty meals.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep meals regular and moderate in size
• Ask your healthcare team when it is safe to exercise after surgery or a flare-up
• Make follow-up appointments to confirm things are healing

Diet and exercise

No special diet is necessary for everyone, but many people find low-fat, high-fiber foods easier to digest. Gentle walking helps recovery; avoid heavy lifting until your surgeon says it is safe.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with gallbladder pain can be stressful and frustrating. It is normal to worry. Talk to your doctor about your feelings, and reach out for mental health support if you need it.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent cholecystitis, but you can lower your risk of gallstones by eating well, staying active, and avoiding rapid weight loss.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for cholecystitis.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for people without symptoms. If you have gallstones, your doctor will monitor you or discuss treatment.

Complications

If left untreated

• The gallbladder can break open, causing a life-threatening belly infection
• Infection can spread into the bloodstream, called sepsis
• Gallstones can block the tube leading to the liver or pancreas
• A pocket of pus, called an abscess, can form in the gallbladder area

Long-term outlook

With timely care, cholecystitis is very treatable. Most people recover completely and can live well without a gallbladder without long-term problems.

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