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Sudden, intense pain in the upper abdomen can be frightening, especially when it strikes without warning. One of the most common causes of such pain is acute cholecystitis, a condition that involves inflammation of the gallbladder and requires prompt medical care. Although the name may sound complex, understanding the condition, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options can greatly reduce anxiety and help you seek timely care.
At Bhagwan Mahavir Manipal Hospitals, Ranchi, our experienced gastroenterologists and surgeons provide comprehensive, compassionate care for patients with gallbladder disorders, including acute cholecystitis, ensuring excellent outcomes and faster recovery.
Synopsis
- Understanding the Gallbladder and Its Function
- What Is Acute Cholecystitis?
- Key Causes of Acute Cholecystitis
- Acalculous Cholecystitis (Without Gallstones)
- Symptoms of Acute Cholecystitis You Should Not Ignore
- Diagnosis of Acute Cholecystitis at Bhagwan Mahavir Manipal Hospital, Ranchi
- Treatment Options for Acute Cholecystitis
- Do’s and Don’ts for Gallbladder Health
- Conclusion
Understanding the Gallbladder and Its Function
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver on the right side of the abdomen. Its primary role is to store and concentrate bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver.
When you consume fatty foods, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine, helping break down fats and aiding digestion. While the gallbladder plays a helpful role, it is not essential for survival, and the body adapts well if it is removed.
What Is Acute Cholecystitis?
Acute cholecystitis refers to the sudden inflammation of the gallbladder. This condition most often occurs when the flow of bile from the gallbladder is blocked, leading to pressure build-up, irritation, swelling, and sometimes infection.
It is commonly known as a gallbladder attack and is considered a medical emergency. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most patients recover fully without long-term complications.
Key Causes of Acute Cholecystitis
Gallstones (Calculous Cholecystitis)
More than 95% of acute cholecystitis cases are caused by gallstones. Gallstones are hardened deposits of cholesterol or bile salts that form inside the gallbladder.
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A gallstone may get stuck in the cystic duct, blocking bile flow
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Trapped bile causes inflammation and swelling
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The stagnant bile can become infected, worsening the condition
Although many people have gallstones without symptoms, blockage can trigger sudden and severe pain.
Acalculous Cholecystitis (Without Gallstones)
In rare cases, acute cholecystitis occurs without gallstones. This form is usually seen in patients who are already seriously ill and may be associated with:
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Major surgeries
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Severe trauma or burns
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Prolonged hospitalisation or IV nutrition
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Severe infections such as sepsis
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Tumours compressing the bile ducts
This type often requires urgent medical intervention.
Symptoms of Acute Cholecystitis You Should Not Ignore
Symptoms usually appear suddenly and intensify over time. Common warning signs include:
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Severe, constant pain in the upper right or centre of the abdomen
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Pain radiating to the right shoulder or back
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Abdominal tenderness, especially when touched
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Nausea and vomiting
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Fever and chills, indicating infection
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Bloating and indigestion
In some cases, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) and dark urine may occur, suggesting bile duct involvement, which needs immediate evaluation.
Diagnosis of Acute Cholecystitis at Bhagwan Mahavir Manipal Hospital, Ranchi
Accurate diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications. At Bhagwan Mahavir Manipal Hospital, Ranchi, diagnosis begins with a detailed clinical assessment followed by advanced investigations.
Physical Examination
Doctors check for Murphy’s sign, a classic indicator where pressing over the gallbladder causes sharp pain during inhalation.
Diagnostic Tests
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Blood Tests: Elevated white blood cell count and inflammatory markers
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Abdominal Ultrasound: The first and most reliable imaging test to detect gallstones and gallbladder inflammation
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HIDA Scan: Evaluates bile flow and identifies duct blockages
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CT Scan: Provides detailed images to detect complications like abscess, perforation, or gangrene
Treatment Options for Acute Cholecystitis
Initial Hospital Management
Most patients require hospital admission for stabilisation, which includes:
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Temporary fasting to rest the gallbladder
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Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration
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Pain-relief medications
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Antibiotics to control or prevent infection
Gallbladder Removal Surgery (Cholecystectomy)
Cholecystectomy is the definitive and most effective treatment for acute cholecystitis, preventing recurrence and serious complications.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
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Minimally invasive technique
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Small incisions with camera-guided surgery
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Less pain, minimal scarring, faster recovery
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Most patients go home within 1–2 days
Open Cholecystectomy
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Required in severe or complicated cases
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Involves a larger incision
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Longer recovery but equally effective
After gallbladder removal, bile flows directly from the liver to the intestine. Most people resume normal eating habits without long-term digestive issues.
Do’s and Don’ts for Gallbladder Health
Do's
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Seek immediate medical care for persistent abdominal pain
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Follow medical advice regarding diet and medications
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Resume normal activities gradually after surgery
Don’ts
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Ignore recurring abdominal pain
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Consume fatty or fried foods during an attack
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Delay surgery if recommended
Conclusion
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a gallbladder attack, timely medical attention can make all the difference. Top Medical Gastroenterologist in Bhagwan Mahavir Manipal Hospitals, Ranchi, offers advanced diagnostic facilities, minimally invasive surgery, and expert gastroenterology care under one roof.
Book an appointment today and take the first step towards safe, effective treatment and long-term relief.
FAQ's
Initial treatment controls infection and pain, but surgery is the most reliable long-term solution to prevent recurrence.
Laparoscopic surgery usually takes 1–2 hours.
Yes. Delay can lead to infection, gallbladder rupture, sepsis, or even life-threatening complications.
Yes. Most people live a completely normal life without dietary restrictions.
A healthy, low-fat diet reduces gallstone risk but cannot guarantee prevention.
Yes. It requires urgent medical attention to avoid complications.
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