Cholecystitis is when your gallbladder becomes inflamed, which means it gets red, swollen, and sore. The gallbladder is a small organ located under your liver on the right side of your abdomen. Its job is to store bile, a fluid that helps digest food.
Most of the time, cholecystitis happens because gallstones block the tube that carries bile out of the gallbladder. This blockage causes bile to build up, leading to inflammation. Other reasons for cholecystitis can include issues with the bile ducts, tumours, serious illnesses, or infections.
Cholecystitis can occur suddenly or develop over time. Common symptoms include severe pain in the upper right or middle part of your abdomen, which can spread to your back or shoulders. You might also feel nauseous, vomit, or have a fever.
If cholecystitis isn’t treated, it can lead to serious problems like a ruptured gallbladder, which can be very dangerous. Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the gallbladder. If you have symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
Cholecystitis happens when your gallbladder becomes inflamed, usually because something is blocking the flow of bile.
Your gallbladder is a small organ that stores bile, a fluid made by the liver to help digest fats. Normally, bile flows out of the gallbladder through a tube called the cystic duct and into the small intestine. However, sometimes small, hard pieces called gallstones form in the bile. If a gallstone gets stuck in the cystic duct, bile can't flow out and starts to build up in the gallbladder. This buildup increases pressure inside the gallbladder, causing it to become inflamed and sometimes infected.
In some cases, instead of gallstones, a thick mixture of bile, cholesterol, and other substances called biliary sludge can block the cystic duct, leading to the same problem.
There is also a less common and more serious type of cholecystitis, called acalculous cholecystitis, which happens without gallstones . This can occur due to severe illnesses, injuries, or infections that damage the gallbladder. It can be a complication from major surgery, serious injuries, burns, severe infections, or conditions that cause severe malnutrition and dehydration.
Other less common causes of cholecystitis include tumours blocking the bile ducts, problems with blood supply to the gallbladder (often seen in people with diabetes), or infections that prevent bile from draining properly.
Certain groups of people in Singapore are more likely to develop cholecystitis compared to the rest. Here’s who are at risk:
Additionally, people with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure are at higher risk. These conditions can affect the blood supply to the gallbladder or cause other complications that make cholecystitis more likely.
Diagnosing cholecystitis involves several steps to confirm the inflammation of the gallbladder. Here’s how it’s done:
These steps help doctors confirm if you have cholecystitis, understand how severe it is, and decide on the best treatment.
Cholecystitis has some clear signs and symptoms to watch out for:
Yes, cholecystitis s usually very painful. The pain is sharp and severe, often starting suddenly and getting worse over time. You’ll most likely feel it in the upper right part of your abdomen, but it can also spread to your back or right shoulder. The pain can be so intense that it makes it hard to move or take deep breaths. Your abdomen may also be very tender, especially when you press on it.
Cholecystitis pain comes on suddenly and builds up quickly, becoming constant. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away because untreated cholecystitis can lead to serious problems.
Certain groups of people in Singapore are more likely to develop cholecystitis compared to the rest. Here’s who are at risk:
Additionally, people with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure are at higher risk. These conditions can affect the blood supply to the gallbladder or cause other complications that make cholecystitis more likely.
Diagnosing cholecystitis involves several steps to confirm the inflammation of the gallbladder. Here’s how it’s done:
These steps help doctors confirm if you have cholecystitis, understand how severe it is, and decide on the best treatment.
Treatment options for cholecystitis in Singapore, particularly at CRCS, include a range of advanced medical services and procedures:
If you are suffering from cholecystitis, please schedule an appointment with CRCS Clinic for proper diagnosis and an appropriate treatment option.
If you're experiencing symptoms that might be related to cholecystitis, it's important to get the right care. At CRCS Clinic, we offer a full range of diagnostic services and advanced treatments to help you feel better and get back to your daily life. Our specialist is here to provide the support and expertise you need. Don’t wait; reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey to recovery. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Mild cases may improve with conservative treatment, but medical intervention is often necessary to prevent complications and recurrence.
If the gallbladder is not removed, there is a risk of recurrence. Cholecystectomy is often performed to minimise the risk for recurrence.
Cholecystitis can be associated with other conditions like gallstones, bile duct problems, and infections. It can also occur in patients with diabetes or severe illness.