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Cholecystitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the gallbladder, a small pear-shaped organ located on the right side of the abdomen, just beneath the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a fluid that helps digest fat, and releases it into the small intestine when needed.
Cholecystitis is most commonly caused by gallstones, which are small, hard deposits that can form in the gallbladder. When gallstones block the bile ducts, the bile becomes trapped and the gallbladder can become inflamed. Other causes of cholecystitis may include infection or tumors.
Symptoms of cholecystitis can include:
Diagnosis of cholecystitis typically involves a physical exam, blood tests, imaging tests (such as ultrasound, CT scan or MRI), and sometimes a cholecystogram (X-ray of the gallbladder).
Treatment of cholecystitis may involve antibiotics to treat any infection, pain management, and sometimes surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). In some cases, medications may be used to dissolve gallstones.
Prevention of cholecystitis includes maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet that is low in fat and cholesterol, and staying hydrated. If you are experiencing symptoms of cholecystitis, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.