What are the symptoms of gallbladder disease. How does gallstone formation lead to shortness of breath. Can gallbladder problems cause shoulder pain. What is the connection between eating and gallbladder attacks. How is cholecystitis related to gallstones.

The Link Between Gallstones and Respiratory Distress

Gallstones are a common digestive issue that can lead to unexpected symptoms, including shortness of breath. This connection might seem surprising, but understanding the anatomy and function of the gallbladder helps explain this phenomenon.

Can gallstones really cause breathing difficulties? Indeed, they can. When gallstones obstruct the bile ducts, it can lead to inflammation and pain that radiates to the chest and upper abdomen. This discomfort can make it challenging to take deep breaths, resulting in a sensation of breathlessness.

The Gallbladder’s Role in Digestion

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Its primary function is to store and concentrate bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Bile helps break down fats in the small intestine, making it crucial for proper digestion.

• Stores bile produced by the liver
• Releases bile into the small intestine during digestion
• Aids in the breakdown of dietary fats

Recognizing Gallbladder Pain and Associated Symptoms

Gallbladder pain, also known as biliary colic, can manifest in various ways. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early detection and treatment of gallbladder issues.

How does gallbladder pain typically present itself? Gallbladder pain often occurs in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen and may radiate to the right shoulder or back. The pain can be sharp, cramping, or dull, and it frequently intensifies after consuming fatty foods.

Common Symptoms of Gallbladder Problems

• Sudden, intense abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills (in case of infection)
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Shortness of breath
• Shoulder pain

The Formation and Consequences of Gallstones

Gallstones are solid, pebble-like deposits that form in the gallbladder. They can vary in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. Understanding how these stones form and their potential complications is essential for managing gallbladder health.

What causes gallstones to develop? Gallstones typically form when there’s an imbalance in the substances that make up bile. This can occur due to excess cholesterol, bilirubin, or when the gallbladder doesn’t empty properly.

Types of Gallstones

1. Cholesterol stones: The most common type, formed when there’s too much cholesterol in the bile
2. Pigment stones: Darker in color, these form when there’s excess bilirubin in the bile

Are all gallstones problematic? Not necessarily. Many people have gallstones without experiencing any symptoms. However, when stones block the bile ducts, they can cause significant pain and complications.

Cholecystitis: When Gallstones Lead to Inflammation

Cholecystitis is the medical term for inflammation of the gallbladder. This condition often occurs as a result of gallstones blocking the cystic duct, which leads to bile buildup and subsequent inflammation.

How does cholecystitis differ from simple gallstones? While gallstones can exist without causing problems, cholecystitis is an active inflammatory process that requires prompt medical attention. It can lead to more severe complications if left untreated.

Symptoms of Cholecystitis

• Severe abdominal pain, especially in the upper right quadrant
• Fever and chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal tenderness
• Pain that worsens with deep breathing

Is cholecystitis always caused by gallstones? While gallstones are the most common cause of cholecystitis, accounting for about 95% of cases, there are instances of acalculous cholecystitis, where inflammation occurs without the presence of stones.

The Unexpected Connection: Gallbladder Issues and Shortness of Breath

The association between gallbladder problems and respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath might seem counterintuitive. However, this connection highlights the complex interplay between different body systems.

Why does gallbladder pain sometimes cause shortness of breath? There are several reasons for this phenomenon:

1. Referred pain: Gallbladder pain can radiate to the chest, mimicking heart or lung issues
2. Diaphragm irritation: Inflammation of the gallbladder can irritate the diaphragm, affecting breathing
3. Shallow breathing: Severe abdominal pain can cause people to take shallow breaths to avoid exacerbating the pain

Does shortness of breath always indicate a serious gallbladder problem? Not necessarily, but it’s a symptom that should be taken seriously, especially when accompanied by other signs of gallbladder issues.

Dietary Triggers and Gallbladder Attacks

Diet plays a crucial role in gallbladder health and can significantly influence the occurrence of gallbladder attacks. Understanding which foods might trigger symptoms is essential for managing gallbladder issues.

Which foods are most likely to trigger a gallbladder attack? High-fat foods are the primary culprits. These include:

• Fried foods
• Fatty meats
• Full-fat dairy products
• Processed snacks and desserts

Why do these foods cause problems? The gallbladder contracts to release bile when fatty foods enter the digestive system. If gallstones are present, this contraction can cause pain and other symptoms.

The Role of Timing in Gallbladder Symptoms

Many people with gallbladder issues notice that their symptoms worsen after eating, particularly following large or fatty meals. This timing is not coincidental; it’s directly related to the gallbladder’s function in the digestive process.

How long after eating do gallbladder symptoms typically appear? Symptoms often begin 30 minutes to 2 hours after eating, as this is when the gallbladder is most active in the digestive process.

Diagnosing Gallbladder Problems: From Symptoms to Tests

Accurate diagnosis of gallbladder issues is crucial for appropriate treatment. Healthcare providers use a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests to identify gallbladder problems.

What are the most common tests used to diagnose gallbladder issues? The primary diagnostic tools include:

• Ultrasound: The most common initial test, which can visualize gallstones and inflammation
• CT scan: Provides detailed images of the gallbladder and surrounding structures
• HIDA scan: Assesses gallbladder function and bile flow
• Blood tests: Can indicate inflammation or infection

Is a physical exam enough to diagnose gallstones? While a physical exam can provide valuable information, imaging tests are typically necessary for a definitive diagnosis of gallstones or cholecystitis.

The Importance of Timely Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of gallbladder issues is crucial for several reasons:

1. Prevents complications: Untreated gallbladder problems can lead to more serious conditions
2. Guides treatment: Proper diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment selection
3. Improves outcomes: Early intervention often leads to better overall outcomes

Treatment Options for Gallbladder Disease

The treatment of gallbladder disease depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of complications. Options range from conservative management to surgical intervention.

What are the main treatment approaches for gallbladder problems? Treatment options include:

• Watchful waiting: For asymptomatic gallstones
• Dietary modifications: To reduce the risk of attacks
• Medications: To manage pain or dissolve small stones
• Cholecystectomy: Surgical removal of the gallbladder

Is surgery always necessary for gallstones? Not always. Many people with asymptomatic gallstones can manage their condition with lifestyle changes. However, symptomatic gallstones or complications often require surgical intervention.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: The Gold Standard

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the preferred surgical approach for gallbladder removal. This minimally invasive procedure offers several advantages:

• Smaller incisions
• Shorter hospital stay
• Faster recovery time
• Lower risk of complications

How long does recovery from gallbladder surgery typically take? Most patients can return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks after laparoscopic cholecystectomy, though full recovery may take 4-6 weeks.

Living Without a Gallbladder: Adjustments and Expectations

After gallbladder removal, most people can lead normal, healthy lives. However, some adjustments may be necessary, particularly in the early stages of recovery.

What changes can be expected after gallbladder removal? Common post-surgery experiences include:

• Temporary digestive changes
• Need for dietary modifications
• Possible increase in bowel movement frequency

Do people need to take supplements after gallbladder removal? Most individuals don’t require specific supplements after cholecystectomy. However, some may benefit from digestive enzymes or bile acid supplements, especially if they experience persistent digestive issues.

Long-term Dietary Considerations

While many people can return to their normal diet after recovery, some find that certain dietary changes improve their comfort and digestion:

1. Gradually reintroduce fats into the diet
2. Eat smaller, more frequent meals
3. Stay hydrated
4. Increase fiber intake gradually

Preventing Gallbladder Problems: Lifestyle and Dietary Strategies

While some risk factors for gallbladder disease are beyond our control, there are several lifestyle and dietary strategies that can help reduce the risk of developing gallstones and other gallbladder issues.

What are effective ways to prevent gallbladder problems? Key preventive measures include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Staying physically active
• Avoiding rapid weight loss or crash diets
• Limiting high-fat and high-cholesterol foods

Can certain foods help prevent gallstones? Some studies suggest that foods high in vitamin C, calcium, and coffee consumption may help reduce the risk of gallstone formation. However, more research is needed to confirm these associations.

The Role of Regular Check-ups

Regular medical check-ups can play a crucial role in the early detection and prevention of gallbladder issues. During these visits, healthcare providers can:

1. Assess risk factors for gallbladder disease
2. Provide personalized prevention strategies
3. Conduct necessary screening tests
4. Address any emerging symptoms promptly

How often should one have a gallbladder check-up? For most people, annual physical exams are sufficient. However, individuals with risk factors or a family history of gallbladder disease may benefit from more frequent assessments.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags and Emergency Situations

While many gallbladder issues can be managed with conservative treatment, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Recognizing these red flags is crucial for preventing serious complications.

What symptoms indicate a gallbladder emergency? Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain
• High fever with chills
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Dark urine or clay-colored stools

Is it possible for gallbladder problems to resolve on their own? While some mild gallbladder attacks may subside without intervention, recurring or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to prevent complications.

Differentiating Gallbladder Pain from Other Conditions

Gallbladder pain can sometimes mimic other conditions, making accurate diagnosis challenging. Some conditions that may present similar symptoms include:

1. Heart attack
2. Peptic ulcer disease
3. Pancreatitis
4. Pneumonia

Given the potential for serious underlying conditions, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical evaluation for unexplained abdominal pain, especially when accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

The Future of Gallbladder Treatment: Emerging Technologies and Approaches

As medical science advances, new technologies and treatment approaches for gallbladder disease continue to emerge. These innovations aim to improve diagnostic accuracy, enhance treatment efficacy, and reduce patient discomfort.

What are some promising developments in gallbladder treatment? Emerging approaches include:

• Improved imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis
• Minimally invasive procedures for stone removal without surgery
• Novel medications to dissolve gallstones
• Robotic-assisted surgical techniques

Will these new treatments replace traditional gallbladder surgery? While these innovations show promise, laparoscopic cholecystectomy remains the gold standard for treating symptomatic gallstones. However, new approaches may offer alternatives for patients who are not good candidates for surgery.

The Role of Personalized Medicine

The field of personalized medicine is also making strides in gallbladder disease management. This approach takes into account individual genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors to tailor treatment plans. Potential applications include:

1. Genetic testing to assess gallstone risk
2. Customized dietary recommendations based on individual risk factors
3. Targeted therapies based on specific gallstone composition

As research in this area continues, we may see more personalized and effective strategies for preventing and treating gallbladder issues in the future.

Shortness of Breath & Shoulder Pain After Eating

It’s alarming when you become short of breath but it can be especially frightening if it’s accompanied by shoulder pain. The most common condition thought of with these symptoms is a heart attack, but if the symptoms only develop after eating it can be a sign of a digestive-related condition. Anytime you experience adverse reactions from eating, avoid the foods that trigger your symptoms and call your doctor.

Is This an Emergency?

If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

Gallbladder Disease

Shortness of breath and shoulder pain that develops after you eat can be a sign of gallbladder disease. Your gallbladder is a sac that stores bile to help your body digest high-fat content foods. The gallbladder can develop cholesterol deposits that can form into clusters called stones. A gallstone that becomes lodged in the gallbladder duct can lead to inflammation and severe pain in your chest, abdomen and right shoulder, according to MayoClinic. com. Foods that are high in fat, such as cream, cheese and fried foods are most likely to trigger a gallbladder attack.

• Shortness of breath and shoulder pain that develops after you eat can be a sign of gallbladder disease.

Allergic Reaction

Chest Pain After Eating Ice Cream

Learn More

You can have an allergic reaction to any food. A food allergy occurs when you eat a food that your immune system does not identify as safe 1. The immune system attempts to rid the body of the proteins in the food by creating immunoglobulin E antibodies. These antibodies trigger your white blood cells to produce histamine, a chemical that protects against infection but causes inflammation in soft tissues. Your lungs are made of soft tissues that can become constricted and swollen from a food allergy 1. Chest pressure commonly causes referred pain in your back and shoulders. Referred pain is pain that originates in one area of your body and is felt in another.

• You can have an allergic reaction to any food.
• Referred pain is pain that originates in one area of your body and is felt in another.

Allergy-Induced Asthma

After consuming an allergic food, your lungs can swell, restricting your breathing ability. This can lead to shortness of breath, chest pain, tightness, coughing and wheezing. Shoulder pain is possible with this condition, again due to reflected pain. Chest pain commonly can cause reflected pain in your upper back and shoulders. The only way to prevent these symptoms is to identify and avoid all foods that cause an allergic reaction.

• After consuming an allergic food, your lungs can swell, restricting your breathing ability.
• Chest pain commonly can cause reflected pain in your upper back and shoulders.

Heart Attack

Can Food Sensitivities and Allergies Cause Gallbladder Problems?

Learn More

A heart attack can happen at any time 3. Eating does not increase your risk of having a heart attack, but shortness of breath and shoulder pain are classic symptoms of a heart attack. A heart attack occurs when a blood vessel that goes to your heart is clogged, cutting off the blood supply. This is a serious medical condition that could lead to death.

• A heart attack can happen at any time 3.
• A heart attack occurs when a blood vessel that goes to your heart is clogged, cutting off the blood supply.

Liver, Pancreas and Gallbladder Conditions

• Home
• Our Team
• Conditions
• Services
• FAQs
• Patient Info
• Contact
• Patient Portal

The biliary system, including the liver, pancreas and gallbladder, form a part of the body’s digestive system that is responsible for nutrient absorption and waste disposal. A number of disorders can occur in the biliary system. Some of the most common are highlighted below.

Ascites

Ascites is simply an accumulation of fluid in the abdomen that causes swelling. It most often occurs in patients with liver disease and who are in the late stages of cancer.

Symptoms

Many people do not initially notice symptoms, but as ascites become larger patients experience

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Bloating
• Shortness of breath

Causes

Most often, ascites are caused by

• Cirrhosis
• Severe liver disease
• Late stage cancers

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a condition in which healthy liver cells are damaged over a long period of time resulting in scar tissue formation, and loss of functioning liver cells. This process eventually contributes to liver failure. Since a healthy liver is needed to survive, cirrhosis is a very serious disorder.

Symptoms

Early in the disease, people may not experience symptoms because the liver has some ability to regenerate and compensate for injury. As the disease progresses the following symptoms are common:

• fatigue or weakness
• itching
• nausea
• bloating of the abdomen from ascites—a buildup of fluid in the abdomen
• edema—swelling due to a buildup of fluid—in the feet, ankles, or legs and abdomen
• weight loss or loss of appetite
• spiderlike blood vessels on the skin or easy bruising
• jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes

Causes

• Hepatitis C
• Alcohol related liver disease
• Fatty liver disease

For more information:
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/cirrhosis

Fatty liver disease

Fatty liver disease is simply the presence of accumulated fat in the liver. A build up of fat in the liver may cause an inflammatory process which leads to cirrhosis.

There are two main types:

• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
• Alcoholic fatty liver disease

Symptoms

Both alcoholic and non alcoholic forms of fatty liver disease rarely cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms are present they may be

• fatigue or weakness
• itching
• spiderlike blood vessels on the skin or easy bruising
• jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes

Causes

Alcoholic fatty liver disease is caused by heavy alcohol use and is the earliest stage of alcohol related liver disease.

Researchers unsure of the cause of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, but have found it to be more prevalent in patients who are

• Obese
• Have type 2 diabetes
• Are middle aged or older
• Have high levels of fats in the blood

For more information on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease:
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/nafld-nash
http://patients.gi.org/topics/fatty-liver-disease-nafld

Gallstone and Gallbladder disease

The gallbladder and its associated bile ducts form the system that carries bile to the duodenum. The pancreatic duct joins the common bile duct at the ampulla of vater in the duodenal wall. Crystallization of bile within the gallbladder or occasionally in the bile ducts results in stone formation, pain and plugging of the bile system.

Symptoms

Many patients with gallstones do not experience symptoms. However many do experience severe symptoms that include

• abdominal pain; the upper right portion or just below the breast bone are most common
• pain in upper back
• nausea or vomiting
• fever
• jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes
• dark urine
• paler than usual stools

Causes

Researchers are unsure exactly why the system may become imbalanced, but have identified that certain people have a higher risk of developing gallstones or an infection of the gallbladder.

Who is at greatest risk?

• Women
• People over 40
• American Indians
• Mexican Americans
• People who are obese
• People who have experienced rapid weight loss
• Pregnant women
• Those who eat high-fat or high-cholesterol diets
• Those with diseases that affect nutrient absorption, such as Crohn’s
• Those with liver disease

For more information:

http://s3. gi.org/patients/cgp/pdf/gallstones.pdf
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gallstones

Gilbert’s syndrome

Gilbert’s syndrome is a condition where one of the liver enzymes does not process bilirubin as efficiently. . Unconjugated bilirubin may accumulate in lager amounts causing mild intermittent jaundice.  It is a common normal genetic variant that poses no health issues.

Symptoms

The main indication of Gilbert’s disease is jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes

Causes

Caused by a gene mutation that controls an enzyme that breaks down bilirubin in the bloodstream.

Hemochromatosis

Hemochromatosis is a disorder in which the body simply absorbs too much iron from food. The excess accumulates in organs and joints, and can be fatal if left untreated.

Symptoms

• joint pain
• fatigue
• weight loss
• abdominal pain
• memory fog
• irregular heart beat
• loss of sex drive

Causes

Primary Hemochromatosis is an inherited genetic defect, while Secondary Hemochromatosis comes from frequent blood transfusions.

For more information:
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/hemochromatosis

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver from any cause. Common causes of hepatitis include viruses, medications, toxins, and inherited liver conditions. Viral hepatitis comes from several viruses labeled A, B, C, D & E. Toxic hepatitis comes from alcohol, drugs, nutritional supplements or chemicals overloading the liver. Inherited liver problems include hemochromatosis, alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency, and Wilson’s disease. Since a healthy liver is needed to survive hepatitis is a very serious disorder.

Symptoms

While some people do not experience symptoms, the most common are

• fatigue or weakness
• itching
• jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes
• nausea or vomiting
• loss of appetite
• abdominal pain
• headache
• fever
• mental confusion

Causes

While each of the hepatitis viruses has similar symptoms, they each have different means of transmission and affect the liver differently. A laboratory test can determine which form of hepatitis is present.

Hepatitis is a complex disease. For more information see
https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/
http://patients.gi.org/topics/viral-hepatitis/
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/viral-hepatitis

Jaundice

Jaundice is the term used to describe a condition where there is too much bilirubin in the blood, identified by a yellowing in the skin and eyes. It not a disease, but is a sign of underlying disorders

Symptoms

• yellowing of the skin and eyes
• fatigue or weakness
• itching
• nausea or vomiting
• loss of appetite
• abdominal pain
• fever
• dark urine
• paler than usual stools

Causes

Bilirubin is yellow-colored substance that remains in the bloodstream after iron is removed from the hemoglobin in red blood cells. If there is an obstructed bile duct or the liver is unhealthy, jaundice occurs. A number of conditions can cause this to occur.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is a gland hidden behind the stomach. The pancreas has several functions: To produce enzymes that help digestion, to provide controlling hormones for gut function, and production of of insulin and glucagon that help control the way glucose is processed.  Pancreatitis may vary from absent symptoms with elevations of amylase or lipase, to a life threatening process with severe pain and multiple systems failure.

Symptoms

• Upper abdominal pain that radiates into the back
• Swollen or tender abdomen
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever
• Increased heart rate

Causes

• Alcoholism
• Gallstones
• Abdominal surgery
• Some medications
• High triglycerides
• Cystic fibrosis
• Some autoimmune conditions

For more information, see
http://patients. gi.org/topics/pancreatitis-acute-and-chronic/
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/pancreatitis

Other resources:

For more information on alcoholic liver disease see http://s3.gi.org/patients/cgp/pdf/alcohol.pdf

If you are bothered by conditions of the liver, pancreas or gallbladder, our office can help. Call (706) 868-0104 for more information.

The content on our website is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical conditions. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you may have regarding your health.

Chronic cholecystitis, treatment of chronic cholecystitis in the network of NEARMEDIC clinics

Sign up online

• Published: February 2, 2016

• Article updated: January 29, 2023

Indigestion may be due to chronic or acute pathologies. Most often, dyspeptic symptoms occur against the background of dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract, but the work of the auxiliary digestive organs should also be taken into account. Thus, a lack of bile does not allow the body to fully absorb fats, resulting in nutritional deficiencies. Diseases of the gallbladder and biliary tract are also manifested by diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and other unpleasant symptoms.

Chronic cholecystitis is a common disease among middle-aged men and women. This pathology is more often diagnosed in women. The long course of cholecystitis can be complicated by an infectious process and even the death of organ tissues, so it is important to be examined in a timely manner when the first symptoms of the disease appear. As a treatment for the disease, gastroenterologists prescribe diet, drugs, and surgery. With timely therapy, the prognosis is favorable, but some forms of cholecystitis are characterized by a high mortality rate.

More about the disease

Chronic cholecystitis is an inflammatory disease of the gallbladder that develops over a long period of time. Most often, this form of inflammation is formed after the manifestation of acute cholecystitis. A common cause of the pathology is blockage of the excretory ducts of the gallbladder with calculi, but other etiologies are also possible. Patients suffering from such a disease complain of pain in the right hypochondrium, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms. Unpleasant sensations may periodically disappear, but during exacerbations, pain intensifies.

In most cases, chronic cholecystitis is complicated by an infectious process of a bacterial or fungal nature. Pathogenic microflora can penetrate into the organ from the cavity of the gastrointestinal tract or from distant anatomical regions. The development of infection contributes to prolonged stagnation of bile. In addition, already existing diseases, such as diabetes mellitus and HIV infection, negatively affect the course of cholecystitis. Delaying treatment increases the risk of developing dangerous complications, so it is recommended to be examined by a gastroenterologist in the early stages of inflammation, when abdominal pain and symptoms of indigestion appear.

Organ function

The gallbladder is the anatomical part of the liver. This sac-like organ is essential for storing bile synthesized by the liver cells and removing fluid into the small intestine during digestion. The release of bile into the cavity of the duodenum promotes the absorption of fatty foods and improved absorption of nutrients. In the organ there is a constant accumulation of secretion, leading to an increase in the viscosity of the fluid. After food enters the intestines, hormones stimulate the relaxation of special valves and the release of bile into the digestive tract through special ducts.

Other organ functions:

• Maintenance of metabolism.
• Improvement of small intestine motility.
• Excretion of excess cholesterol and bilirubin from the body.
• Activation of enzymes necessary for the digestion of protein foods.

The gallbladder is often exposed to pathological influences. Violation of the muscular membrane of the organ can make it difficult to release bile – this process not only harms digestion, but also contributes to the formation of stones that can further completely clog the bile ducts and damage the internal membranes of the gallbladder. Normally, the organ does not contain microflora, however, with diseases and anatomical defects, pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic microorganisms from the intestine can penetrate into the gallbladder.

Causes

Inflammation in the gallbladder can be triggered by various factors. First of all, this is stagnation of bile, which disrupts the functions of the organ and contributes to the occurrence of infection. E. coli, streptococci, Giardia and other pathogens can penetrate from the intestine into the body. In this case, the occurrence of infection can be a direct cause of inflammation or a consequence of such a pathological process.

Possible causes:

• Blockage of the biliary tract due to an anatomical defect, stones or valve malfunction.
• Gallstone disease is a common pathology of the gallbladder. Calculi can form in the organ due to a violation of the chemical composition of bile and stagnation of the secret.
• Malignant or benign tumor. A growing neoplasm may impede the evacuation of bile from the organ.
• Primary infections. In patients with HIV infection, the gallbladder can be affected by a variety of viruses.
• Violation of motility of the gallbladder and its ducts. With insufficient or chaotic contractility of the smooth muscles of the organ, the outflow of bile into the intestine is difficult.

A chronic form of inflammation may occur if the patient has not been treated for acute cholecystitis. This pathology persists for many years and significantly impairs the quality of human life.

Risk factors

There are various forms of predisposition to the disease associated with individual characteristics of a person, primary pathologies, nutrition and heredity. Doctors must take into account the presence of risk factors for cholecystitis during examinations.

Key risk factors:

• Female sex and age between 25 and 45 years.
• Obesity and significant weight loss over several months.
• Taking certain medications. In particular, the risk of developing inflammation in the gallbladder increases with the use of hormonal drugs.
• Pregnancy.
• Chronic diseases of the intestines, liver and pancreas.
• Surgical treatment of abdominal organs, injuries.
• Chronic foci of inflammation in different parts of the body.
• Prolonged parenteral nutrition.
• Improper diet or prolonged fasting.
• Abuse of alcoholic beverages.
• Myocardial infarction and other heart diseases.
• Vascular disorders in diabetes mellitus.
• Abnormal reflux of pancreatic secretions into the gallbladder (pancreatobiliary reflux).
• Insufficient physical activity.

Effective pathology prevention measures are based on the elimination of risk factors, associated with lifestyle and individual patient history.

Forms of the disease

Doctors classify chronic cholecystitis based on the cause of the inflammation and the course of the disease. There is also a classification based on the severity of symptoms.

Basic forms:

• Chronic calculous cholecystitis is the most common variant of the disease that occurs due to blockage of the excretory ducts of an organ with stones. It is characterized by severe symptoms during exacerbations. The inflammatory process can spread to neighboring anatomical structures, including the diaphragm and pleura.
• Chronic non-calculous cholecystitis is a rarer form of the disorder, often diagnosed in patients with severe disease. In this case, the inflammatory process occurs due to trauma, surgery, severe infection, and other causes not related to the formation of stones. With untimely treatment, non-calculous cholecystitis can cause the patient’s death.

The danger of chronic inflammation is due to obliterated symptoms. Patients pay attention to discomfort only during exacerbations, as a result of which the disease gradually progresses and causes complications.

Symptoms and signs

The symptomatic picture of the disease depends on the severity of the inflammatory process, the age of the patient and the frequency of exacerbations. The predominant symptom is usually pain in the right hypochondrium, extending to the back and central abdomen. If the inflammation affects the diaphragm, there may be pain in the right arm and shoulder blade.

Additional signs:

• Tension of the abdominal muscles.
• Great weakness, fatigue.
• Appearance of cold sweat.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Lack of appetite.
• Loose stool.
• Bloating.
• Rapid heartbeat.
• Shortness of breath.
• Low blood pressure.
• Yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes.
• Retrosternal pain.

Due to insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals in the body, symptoms such as pallor of the skin and constant fatigue occur. Against the background of the development of complications, more severe pathological signs appear. With prolonged sharp pain in the abdomen and persistent fever, you should seek medical help as soon as possible.

Diagnostics

Necessary examinations can be ordered by a gastroenterologist. During the appointment, the doctor will ask the patient about the complaints and study the anamnestic information. A physical examination can detect jaundice, bloating, and tenderness in certain areas of the body. Based on the data received, the doctor will prescribe the necessary instrumental and laboratory tests.

Necessary diagnostic manipulations:

• Ultrasound examination of the gallbladder and bile ducts. The advantages of the method are safety and real-time imaging of organs. The doctor can immediately detect gallstones, changes in the walls of the organ and other pathological signs that indicate cholecystitis.
• Blood test to detect inflammatory and infectious process. With severe inflammation in the blood, the number of leukocytes increases. Also, a diagnostic criterion is the concentration of liver enzymes.
• Collection of bile from an organ using duodenal sounding. The specialist sends the resulting material to the laboratory for the detection of pathogenic microflora.
• X-ray contrast study of the gallbladder (cholecystography). The doctor receives information about the size, shape and functional activity of the organ. With the help of this study, anatomical abnormalities, cholelithiasis or other ailments can be detected.

If the physician is unable to make a diagnosis after requesting the results of the listed tests, a gastroscopy, computed tomography or laparoscopy may also be ordered. It is necessary to determine the cause of inflammation as accurately as possible.

Treatment

In chronic cholecystitis, the main method of treatment is a special diet that reduces the negative impact on the organ. Medications may be prescribed to treat infection and inflammation. If the disease has caused dangerous complications, such as gangrene of the gallbladder or peritonitis, surgery is necessary.

Main indications:

• Diet therapy. The patient needs frequent fractional meals. It is necessary to exclude the constant consumption of fatty foods, alcohol, beans and fried meat. The diet should be followed for a long time to prevent the recurrence of the disease. When the gallbladder is removed, patients are prescribed a lifelong diet.
• Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. In chronic infections, it is recommended to obtain a sample of the microflora by probing and select an effective antimicrobial agent using a laboratory test.
• Antispasmodics and pain relievers to relieve symptoms.
• Cholagogue medicines. Medicines of this group are used to improve the excretion of bile into the duodenum.

The main methods of surgical treatment of cholecystitis doctors include the removal of the gallbladder or the removal of stones that clog the ducts of the organ. In severe complications of the disease, a complex open intervention in the abdominal cavity may be required.

Complications

Chronic cholecystitis can provoke the development of severe complications even when symptoms are erased. The main danger is the focus of infection, which can spread to other organs.

Main complications:

• Gangrene of the gallbladder – destruction of the tissues of the organ, leading to a purulent process in the abdominal cavity.
• Peritonitis – extensive inflammation of the peritoneum, causing severe symptoms and intoxication of the whole organism. This pathology can occur against the background of perforation of the inflamed gallbladder.
• Inflammation of the pancreas due to penetration of the contents of the gallbladder into the organ.
• A severe infectious process in which pathogens are spread through the bloodstream (sepsis).

Timely surgical treatment can prevent the development of such complications.

Thus, chronic cholecystitis is a frequent consequence of acute inflammation of the gallbladder. Symptoms of the disease persist for many years and negatively affect the quality of human life. Consultation with a gastroenterologist will help the patient choose an effective treatment for the disease.

Physicians

Who treat chronic cholecystitis

More doctors

To make an appointment with the clinic, you can contact the single contact center:
+7 (495) 6-171-171

Or use the online appointment:

Causes of shortness of breath – Omega-Kyiv reference book

Shortness of breath – a feeling of lack of air. Most often, shortness of breath can occur during physical exertion, when running or climbing a high floor. But, in some cases, shortness of breath occurs even at rest. In this case, you must contact the medical center to conduct a thorough examination of the body. On examination, the patient must indicate how long ago the shortness of breath occurred, how often and with what concomitant symptoms it occurs.

Possible causes of shortness of breath:

• Diseases of the respiratory system. This series of pathologies includes chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, lung cancer, as well as the consequences of tuberculosis. In diseases of the lung tissues, the patient feels an acute lack of air, which in the early stages occurs during physical exertion, and later becomes a painful problem even while at rest;
• Diseases of the cardiovascular system. Pathologies of the heart, without timely treatment, can lead to acute heart failure. Shortness of breath occurs immediately after a myocardial infarction, when necrosis of the heart tissue occurs and blood supply is disturbed. Also, shortness of breath is a symptom of coronary heart disease, high blood pressure and congenital heart disease. With heart failure, shortness of breath occurs with strong physical exertion, and with the development of the disease, it can occur even in a supine position;
• Obesity. If there is excess weight, shortness of breath occurs due to the load on the heart, which is caused by body weight. In the first stage of obesity, shortness of breath appears when walking or running, interferes with eating. If the body weight is too large, it is difficult for the patient to inhale and exhale even at rest;
• During pregnancy. During the period of gestation, shortness of breath is not considered a pathology, but is a normal phenomenon. Difficulty breathing is caused by an increase in the size of the uterus, which affects the increase in intraperitoneal pressure, which in turn reduces lung capacity.

Despite the variety of reasons, it is still necessary to make an appointment with a general practitioner and undergo an examination. Diseases in the advanced stage can significantly aggravate the patient’s condition and worsen the quality of life.

Types of dyspnea:

• Expiratory. This type of shortness of breath is characterized by difficulty exhaling. The cause of problematic exhalation is the narrowing of the lumen of the bronchi. Most often, expiratory dyspnea occurs with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, and the consequences of tuberculosis;
• Inspiratory. With this shortness of breath, it is difficult to inhale. Pathology develops against the background of a significant narrowing of the lumen of the trachea or bronchi. Inspiratory dyspnea is characteristic of asthma, and inflammatory processes in the bronchi;
• Mixed. In this form, the patient has difficulty in both inhalation and exhalation. The cause may be an advanced stage of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

How to treat shortness of breath?

Shortness of breath is only a symptom of diseases that develop in the human body. Therefore, it will be necessary to determine the cause of the disease and influence its destruction.

If shortness of breath occurs due to coronary heart disease or myocardial infarction, the patient needs hospitalization, diagnosis and complex treatment with medications.