Inflammation of the gallbladder

Overview

Gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis) is most commonly caused by gallstones. Typical symptoms include pain in the upper right-hand side of the abdomen, accompanied by nausea and vomiting. If you have these symptoms, you need to see a doctor immediately.

Symptoms

• Pain (often in the upper right abdomen) which worsens when pressed
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever

Causes and treatment

Causes

• Most frequently, gallstones block the flow of bile, which leads to inflammation of the gall bladder

Risk factors

• Obesity
• Female gender
• Pregnancy
• Older than 40

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

• Blood tests
• Ultrasound (sonography)
• Rarely: CT scan (computed tomography)

Possible therapies

• Medication
• Operation (usually to remove the gallbladder)

What can I do myself?

• Balanced, high-fibre diet to prevent gallstones

When to see a doctor?

• Pain (often in the upper right abdomen) which worsens when pressed, combined with
  • nausea and vomiting
  • possibly fever

The pain can come and go, or grow steadily worse. If nausea and fever occur at the same time, gall bladder inflammation is suspected.

Synonyms

cholecystitis