Definition & Symptoms of Cholecystitis

Definition & Symptoms of Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the gallbladder, a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. The gallbladder plays a critical role in digestion by storing bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Bile aids in breaking down fats in the digestive process. When the flow of bile is obstructed, it can lead to irritation, inflammation, and infection of the gallbladder, resulting in cholecystitis.

Definition of Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis can be classified into two primary types:

1. Acute Cholecystitis: A sudden onset of inflammation, often caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct.
2. Chronic Cholecystitis: A prolonged inflammation due to repeated episodes of acute cholecystitis or persistent gallstone obstruction, which can result in gallbladder wall thickening and scarring.

The condition is commonly associated with gallstones, but it can also result from other causes, such as infections, tumors, or trauma. If left untreated, cholecystitis can lead to severe complications, including gallbladder rupture or systemic infection.

Symptoms of Cholecystitis

The symptoms of cholecystitis vary depending on the severity and duration of the condition. Below are the primary signs and symptoms:

1. Abdominal Pain

• Location: Pain is typically felt in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, just below the ribcage.
• Nature: It is often sharp, constant, and severe, lasting several hours.
• Radiation: The pain may radiate to the right shoulder or back, making movement and breathing uncomfortable.
• Trigger: The pain is frequently triggered by a heavy or fatty meal.

2. Nausea and Vomiting

• Many patients experience nausea and vomiting, which may worsen with the severity of the inflammation.

3. Fever and Chills

• A low-grade fever is common in acute cholecystitis, but higher fevers with chills may indicate the presence of infection or complications like abscess formation.

4. Jaundice

• In some cases, patients may develop yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) due to bile buildup, especially if there is an obstruction in the bile ducts.

5. Bloating and Indigestion

• Symptoms like abdominal bloating, a feeling of fullness, and indigestion may also occur, particularly after meals.

6. Tenderness in the Abdomen

• The abdomen, particularly the upper right quadrant, becomes tender to the touch. A physical examination may reveal Murphy’s sign, a hallmark clinical sign where the patient experiences pain and stops breathing when pressure is applied to the gallbladder area.

7. Changes in Stool and Urine

• Stools may appear pale or clay-colored due to reduced bile flow.
• Urine may become dark due to excess bilirubin in the bloodstream.

Less Common Symptoms

In some cases, particularly in older adults or individuals with diabetes, the symptoms of cholecystitis may be vague or atypical, including:

• Generalized abdominal discomfort without localized pain.
• Fatigue or weakness.
• Confusion or altered mental status.

Risk Factors and Triggers

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing cholecystitis:

• Gallstones: The most common cause of acute cholecystitis.
• Age and Gender: Women, especially those over 40, are at a higher risk.
• Obesity: Excess body weight increases gallstone formation.
• Rapid Weight Loss: Extreme dieting or bariatric surgery can predispose individuals to gallbladder inflammation.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes may affect bile flow.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Cholecystitis is a serious condition that requires prompt medical evaluation. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Severe, unrelenting abdominal pain lasting more than a few hours.
• Fever with chills.
• Persistent nausea or vomiting.
• Jaundice or other signs of infection.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as gangrene, perforation, or sepsis.

Conclusion

Cholecystitis is a potentially life-threatening condition if not treated promptly. Understanding its definition and recognizing its symptoms can help individuals seek timely medical care, reducing the risk of complications. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, individuals can lower their chances of developing gallbladder-related conditions. For those at risk, early intervention remains the key to managing cholecystitis effectively.