Cholecystitis

1. Anatomy and physiology of the gall bladder.

1. The gallbladder is located at the inferior surface of the liver, which is located in the upper right abdominal cavity.

2. The gallbladder serves as storage for bile, which is produced by the liver.

2. Definition of "cholecystitis."

1. It is the inflammation of the lining or entire wall of the gallbladder.

2. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection.

3. Gallstones may or may not be present.

3. Factors that may increase risk of cholecystitis.

1. Obesity.

2. Positive family history.

3. Multiple pregnancies.

4. Sedentary life-style.

5. High cholesterol intake.

6. Diseases such as diabetes mellitus, Crohn's disease, or cirrhosis of the liver.

7. Jejunoileal bypass surgery.

4. Signs and symptoms of both acute and chronic cholecystitis.

1. Acute:

1. Sudden onset of pain in the epigastric, right upper abdomen, or the right shoulder.

2. Jaundice.

3. Nausea and vomiting.

4. Intolerance to fatty foods.

5. Fever.

6. Restlessness.

7. Extreme tenderness of gallbladder upon palpitation.

8. Clay-colored stools.

2. Chronic:

1. Pain in right upper quadrant.

2. Low-grade fever.

3. Fat intolerance.

4. Heartburn and gas.

5. Measures to prevent or manage cholecystitis.

1. Achieve and maintain ideal weight. (Provide "Weight Reduction" handout.)

2. Avoid a sedentary life-style.

3. Eat a low fat, low-cholesterol diet. (Provide "Decrease Cholesterol" handouts.)

4. Take medication as ordered.

5. Surgery is frequently required.

6. Possible complications of cholecystitis.

1. Recurrent attacks of cholecystitis.

2. Pancreatitis.

3. Cholangitis (inflammation of the biliary ducts).

4. Biliary fistulas.

5. Obstruction of common bile duct.

6. Rupture of the gallbladder