Introduction

Cholecystitis in simple terms means inflammation of the gall bladder. The gall bladder is situated near the liver; it is a very small organ and plays a vital role in digestion. A fluid called the bile is transported to the small intestine through the gallbladder. Any block in the flow of this bile results in inflammation, pain, and infection in the gallbladder. Cholecystitis is common in both men and women; nearly 20% of the population suffers from this condition. Most people who have gallstones do not experience any problems and it passes off unnoticed all their life.
Cholecystitis will settle down on its own if you adhere to the medications prescribed by the doctor. Only in worst cases surgical removal of the gallbladder is suggested.

What Causes Cholecystitis?

Cholelithiasis, i.e. the existence of choleliths or gallstones in the gallbladder is the main cause for cholecystitis.

• Gallstone is stuck in the cystic duct (tube carrying bile from the gallbladder) thus resulting in cholecystitis.
• The gallstone obstructs the fluid from passing out of the gallbladder.
• The gallbladder gets inflamed and irritated.

Other reasons causing cholecystitis

• Cholecystitis can occur from trauma or from injuries due to accidents.
• Chronic (long-term) cholecystitis arises when the gallbladder is swollen for a long period of time thus making it thick and hard.
• Decrease blood supply to the gallbladder in patients suffering from diabetes.

What Are the Symptoms of Cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis lasts for about two to three days from its onset. The common symptoms experienced by people during this period are

• Mild fever
• Nausea/vomiting
• Sudden and severe abdominal pain (upper right portion)
• Tenderness in the right portion of the abdomen
• Repeated pain after food intake normally up to six hours
• Worsening pain when you breathe in Chills
• Bloating of abdomen

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What Are the Diagnosis & Tests for Cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis is diagnosed through physical examination; your doctor will check the right portion of your abdomen and might order for the following tests.

Ultrasound (sonography): Ultrasound may expose gallstones, gallbladder wall thickening, extra fluid, and other signs of cholecystitis. The size and shape of your gallbladder can be checked through this test.

Cholangiography: examining the bile ducts through x-ray using an intravenous (IV) dye (contrast).

Nuclear scanning test: A gallbladder scan that checks the functioning of your gallbladder. It will also reveal any blocks in the tubes (bile ducts).

Hepatobiliary scintigraphy: Imaging of the liver, bile ducts, gallbladder, and upper part of the small intestine.

Blood tests: To check for any kind of infection.

What Are the Treatments Available for Cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis needs different treatment depending on the severity of the condition.

• If you have gallstones and have no symptoms, no treatment is offered.
• If the pain is very mild, medication is offered for pain. Plenty of fluids, bowel rest, and intravenous antibiotics will settle the problem.
• In acute cases, cholecystectomy, removal of the gallbladder is suggested. This procedure can also be performed using a laparoscope. Belly button surgery is very popular for removal of gallbladder.
• When one or more gallstones cause the problem, ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is recommended. The stones in the bile duct are removed first and then the gallbladder is removed.

How Do You Cope Up with Cholecystitis?

Do not worry, you are not alone. In the US many people suffer from this condition. You can cope up with this condition by following these tips

• Pain management - Learn to manage your pain, at the onset of the first prangs of pain either take your medications or consult your doctor. The pain gets worse if you don’t attend to it, so do not neglect pain.
• Low-fat diet - Low-fat diet will help in bringing down the chances of gallstones. Follow the diet prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not panic if you doctor suggests removal of gallbladder. Digestion will not get affected if gallbladder is removed.
• Learn to rest yourself and follow the rest period suggested by your physician.
• In case you need a surgery check on the pre-hospitalization and post-surgery hospitalization requirements.
• Follow post-operative care as suggested by your doctor.

What Are the Ways to Prevent Cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis can occur in any healthy individual, you can prevent cholecystitis by following the below mentioned.

• Control your body weight; obese people tend to develop gallstones.
• Follow a high-fiber diet.
• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Follow a low-fat diet.
• Removing the gallstones and the gallbladder will prevent further attacks.
• Avoid crash dieting as this can also cause gallstones.

Medications for Cholecystitis Available at InternationalDrugMart.com

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Prescription Medication(s) for Cholecystitis at InternationalDrugMart.com
Cipro (Ciprofloxacin), Flagyl (Metronidazole)

Back to top^ Self Care

Gallstones is unavoidable, anybody from any age group can develop gallstones. Follow these simple, yet effective self care tips.

• Keep checking for abdominal pain. If you develop pain in the upper and right portion of your abdomen, consult your physician immediately.
• While experiencing pain, learn to relax.
• Eat healthy food. Follow low-fat diet regimen.
• Do not get into crash dieting.
• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Follow a high fiber content diet.
• Never take over-the-counter drugs.