Cholecystitis is a condition characterized by redness and swelling (inflammation) of the gallbladder. This occurs when digestive fluid, known as bile, becomes trapped inside the gallbladder.
Contents
Common Symptoms of Gallbladder Inflammation (Cholecystitis)
From upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting to fever, here are some of the common symptoms of cholecystitis:
1. Upper Abdominal Pain
Upper abdominal pain, especially in the upper right side, is one of the most common symptoms of gallbladder inflammation. This pain can radiate to the right shoulder blade or back.
Additionally, gallbladder pain increases rapidly until it reaches a severe peak. The pain may feel sharp, dull, or cramp-like and can worsen when taking deep breaths.
In some cases, people may mistake this pain for a heart attack.
2. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common in cholecystitis. However, these symptoms may be milder in older adults, who might only experience a loss of appetite or a general feeling of unwellness without significant nausea or vomiting.
3. Fever
A fever above 37°C (98.6°F) can occur in one-third of individuals with acute cholecystitis.
Fever can indicate the presence of an infection or more severe inflammation. This symptom is less common in older adults with cholecystitis.
Aside from the symptoms above, other signs of gallbladder inflammation to watch out for include:
- Bloating and abdominal pain
- Stiffness in the right side of the abdominal muscles
- Weakness and fatigue, especially in older adults
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Loose, light-colored stools
How to Treat Gallbladder Inflammation
To treat gallbladder inflammation, patients are typically hospitalized so the gallbladder can rest.
Hospital treatment for gallbladder inflammation or cholecystitis includes:
- Taking antibiotics to fight bacterial infections
- Receiving IV fluids and pain relievers
- Keeping the stomach empty until symptoms subside
However, if gallbladder inflammation is caused by gallstones, gallbladder removal may be necessary. Gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy) is a common procedure, and the body can function well without the gallbladder.
Gallbladder Specialists at Mandaya Puri Hospital
Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri has a team of experienced and specialized gallbladder doctors. If you have gallbladder-related concerns, you can visit our hospital and consult with the following doctors:
1. Dr. Emerson Budiarman Masli, Sp.B. Subsp.BD (K)
Dr. Emerson is an expert in gallbladder diseases at Mandaya Puri Hospital with extensive experience. He also performs procedures such as Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), stomach surgery, pancreatectomy, and hernia surgery.
2. Dr. Ocsyavina, Sp.B. Subsp.BD (K)
Dr. Ocsyavina is a Digestive Surgery Specialist who provides consultations and treatments for gallbladder issues. She performs laparoscopic gallbladder removal, endoscopy, hernia surgery, and bowel adhesion surgery.
3. Prof. Dr. Dr. Toar Jean Maurice Lalisang, Sp.B. Subsp.BD (K)
Prof. Dr. Toar is a specialist in digestive surgery and a member of the Indonesian Association of Digestive Surgery Specialists (IKABDI), with extensive experience in digestive surgery.
4. Dr. Hendra Koncoro, Sp.PD-KGEH
Dr. Hendra Koncoro is an internal medicine specialist focusing on liver and digestive diseases. He practices at Mandaya Royal Hospital on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
5. Dr. Hendra Nurjadin, Sp.PD, KGEH
Dr. Hendra Nurjadin is a Gastroenterology-Hepatology specialist treating internal diseases related to the stomach and liver.
6. Dr. Epistel Pangujian Simatupang, Sp.PD-KGEH
Dr. Epistel is a Gastroenterology-Hepatology specialist with over 17 years of experience. He completed his consultant medical education at Manila Central University, Philippines, in 2004.
Use the Chat feature via WhatsApp, Book Appointment, or the Care Doctor app available on Google Play and the App Store to facilitate visits, check queue numbers, and access complete information.
