← All conditions / Gallbladder & pancreas
Understanding the condition
Acute cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, often caused by a stone blocking its outlet. Pain may persist and be accompanied by nausea, tenderness or fever. Severe inflammation can lead to tissue damage or perforation.
What the evaluation looks for
Clinicians combine examination, blood tests and ultrasound or other imaging. The severity of illness and the possibility of bile-duct obstruction influence the plan.
How treatment is chosen
Hospital treatment may include fluids, pain control, antibiotics and gallbladder removal. If immediate surgery is unsafe, drainage may be considered. Timing and approach depend on the clinical situation rather than a promise of a single incision or same-day discharge.
Questions worth asking
- How severe is the inflammation?
- Is surgery recommended during this admission?
- How will pathology, liver tests and recovery be followed?
When to seek help promptly
Persistent upper abdominal pain with fever, jaundice, worsening weakness or vomiting warrants urgent assessment.