Cholecystitis
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Cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder (pronounced “ko-luh-sis-TIE-tis”). The gallbladder is a little, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver on the right side of the abdomen. Bile, a digestive fluid stored in the gallbladder, is discharged into the small intestine.
Cholecystitis is typically brought on by gallstones blocking the gallbladder’s exit tube. Bile accumulates as a result, which may result in inflammation. Additionally, bile duct issues, tumors, major illnesses, and specific infections are causes of cholecystitis.
Cholecystitis can cause serious, occasionally life-threatening complications, such a ruptured gallbladder, if it is not addressed. Surgery to remove the gallbladder is frequently used as a kind of treatment for cholecystitis.
Cholecystitis symptoms can include:
- Severe abdominal discomfort in your upper right or center
- Your right shoulder or back is in pain.
- When touched, your abdomen feels tender.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Symptoms of cholecystitis frequently appear after a meal, especially one that is substantial or fatty.
When your gallbladder is inflamed, you have cholecystitis. Inflammation of the gallbladder may result from:
Gallstones. Cholecystitis is typically brought on by hard particles that grow in your gallbladder (gallstones). The duct (cystic duct) via which bile exits the gallbladder can become blocked by gallstones—inflammation results from the gallbladder’s bile accumulation.
Tumor. Bile may not adequately drain from your gallbladder if you have a tumor. Cholecystitis may result from the accumulation of bile caused by this.
Bile duct obstruction. Cholecystitis can be caused by bile duct blockage brought on by stones, thickened bile, or small particles (sludge). A blockage may also result from the bile ducts becoming kinked or scarred.
Infection. AIDS and specific viral diseases can bring on gallbladder inflammation.
Serious illness Cholecystitis can result from a serious sickness that damages blood vessels and reduces blood supply to the gallbladder.
Cholecystitis can have several dangerous problems if left untreated, such as:
Internal infection of the gallbladder. Bile may become infectious if it accumulates in your gallbladder and causes cholecystitis.
Tissue in the gallbladder dies. The gallbladder’s tissue may die if cholecystitis is left untreated (gangrene). It is the most frequent consequence, particularly in elderly individuals, those who put off seeking treatment, and diabetics. Your gallbladder may rip due to this, or it can even rupture.
Gallbladder rupture. Your gallbladder may tear (perforate) due to gallbladder enlargement, infection, or tissue degeneration.
By adopting the following precautions to avoid gallstones, you can lower your risk of developing cholecystitis:
Slowly lose weight. Gallstone risk can rise with rapid weight loss.
Keep a healthy weight. Gallstones are more prone to form if you are overweight. Reduce your calorie intake and increase your physical activity to reach a healthy weight. Continue to eat sensibly and exercise to keep your weight healthy.
Pick a balanced diet. Gallstones may be more likely to develop on diets that are high in fat and poor in fiber. Choose a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to reduce risk.
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