Each time you enjoy a delicious meal or snack, your digestion system goes to work to move food through and out of the body. The gallbladder plays a key role in this process. If it becomes blocked, a condition known as cholecystitis can develop, and you may need to see a gastroenterologist for treatment. Below is a guide on the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of cholecystitis. 

Causes and Symptoms

The gallbladder stores bile near the liver before channeling it through the small intestine from the body’s common bile duct (CBD). This entire process helps digest fats. Cholecystitis occurs when gallstones become clogged in the CBD, which leads to a buildup of bile in the gallbladder. The presence of gallstones can be triggered by high levels of cholesterol in the gallbladder, a CBD infection, liver and pancreas tumors and low blood levels due to diabetes. One of the main symptoms of cholecystitis is a sharp abdominal pain that extends to the back or right shoulder. You may also experience fever, chills, nausea and vomiting. All of these symptoms could result from an inflamed gallbladder.

Treatment and Prevention

After diagnosis, a gastroenterologist will determine the best treatment solution. This can include antibiotics to destroy the infection causing cholecystitis. A patient may also need certain medication to help dissolve gallstones. Depending on the severity of the pain and infection, surgery could be done to remove gallstones from the gallbladder. Maintaining a consistently healthy weight is one way to help prevent cholecystitis. Rapid weight loss can increase the chances of getting gallstones, while eating whole grains, fruits, and vegetables may also minimize the formation of gallstones. Avoid large amounts of fried food and choose a diet with high fiber and low amounts of fat.

If you’re experiencing symptoms like those described above, contact Naugatuck Valley Gastroenterology Consultants. Based in Prospect, CT, this team of gastroenterologists specializes in preventative care and providing the latest treatment innovations. If you or a loved one is having abdominal or digestive issues, call (203) 756-6422 to schedule a thorough diagnosis with an experienced gastroenterologist. You can also learn more about the facility and its services by going online.