What are the common symptoms of gallbladder problems. How does gallstone disease affect breathing. Can gallstones cause shoulder pain and shortness of breath. What is the connection between eating and gallbladder attacks. How to recognize signs of cholecystitis.

The Link Between Gallstones and Respiratory Issues

Gallstones, small hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. While abdominal pain is the most commonly associated symptom, many people are surprised to learn that gallstones can also cause shortness of breath. This connection between gallstones and respiratory issues is often overlooked but can be a significant indicator of gallbladder problems.

Why do gallstones cause shortness of breath? The answer lies in the anatomy of the upper abdomen. The gallbladder is located near the diaphragm, the muscle that helps control breathing. When gallstones cause inflammation or infection in the gallbladder, it can irritate the diaphragm, leading to difficulty breathing. Additionally, severe gallbladder pain can cause shallow breathing as patients try to minimize movement that exacerbates their discomfort.

Key Points on Gallstones and Breathing Difficulties

• Inflammation from gallstones can irritate the nearby diaphragm
• Severe pain may cause patients to breathe shallowly
• Shortness of breath can be an early warning sign of gallbladder issues
• Respiratory symptoms often worsen after eating fatty meals

Recognizing Gallbladder Pain 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. The pain typically occurs in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen but can radiate to other areas.

Is gallbladder pain always severe? Not necessarily. While some people experience intense, sharp pain, others may feel a dull ache or discomfort. The intensity can vary depending on the size and location of the gallstones, as well as the degree of inflammation present.

Common Gallbladder Pain Symptoms

1. Upper right abdominal pain or tenderness
2. Pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder
3. Nausea and vomiting
4. Fever and chills (in cases of infection)
5. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

When do gallbladder attacks typically occur? Many patients report that their symptoms worsen after consuming fatty or heavy meals. This is because the gallbladder contracts to release bile when fat enters the digestive system, potentially causing stones to move and irritate the gallbladder walls.

The Connection Between Eating and Gallbladder Attacks

The relationship between eating and gallbladder attacks is a crucial aspect of understanding gallstone symptoms. The gallbladder plays a vital role in the digestive process, storing and releasing bile to help break down fats. When gallstones are present, this normal function can trigger painful episodes.

Why do gallbladder attacks often occur after meals? When we eat, especially foods high in fat, the gallbladder contracts to release bile into the digestive tract. If gallstones are present, this contraction can cause them to move and potentially block bile ducts, leading to pain and other symptoms.

Foods That May Trigger Gallbladder Attacks

• Fried foods
• Fatty meats
• High-fat dairy products
• Eggs
• Processed snacks and baked goods

Can dietary changes help prevent gallbladder attacks? While diet alone may not prevent gallstone formation, adopting a low-fat diet can help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks in some individuals. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Understanding Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the Gallbladder

Cholecystitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the gallbladder. It often occurs as a complication of gallstones but can also develop without the presence of stones. Understanding cholecystitis is essential for recognizing potential gallbladder emergencies.

How does cholecystitis differ from simple gallstones? While gallstones can exist without causing inflammation, cholecystitis involves active inflammation of the gallbladder walls. This condition can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (long-term and recurring).

Symptoms of Cholecystitis

• Severe abdominal pain, often lasting longer than typical gallstone attacks
• Fever and chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal tenderness when touched
• Potential complications if left untreated, such as gallbladder rupture

When should you seek medical attention for suspected cholecystitis? If you experience severe abdominal pain lasting more than a few hours, especially if accompanied by fever, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical care. Cholecystitis can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.

The Surprising Link Between Gallstones and Shoulder Pain

One of the more perplexing symptoms associated with gallbladder issues is shoulder pain, particularly in the right shoulder. This phenomenon, known as referred pain, can be confusing for both patients and healthcare providers unfamiliar with gallstone symptoms.

Why does gallbladder pain radiate to the shoulder? The gallbladder and the right shoulder share nerve pathways that connect to the same segments of the spinal cord. When the gallbladder is inflamed or irritated, the brain can misinterpret the origin of the pain signals, causing discomfort to be felt in the shoulder area.

Characteristics of Gallstone-Related Shoulder Pain

• Typically affects the right shoulder
• Often described as a dull ache or sharp pain
• May worsen during gallbladder attacks
• Can be accompanied by upper back pain
• Often relieved when gallbladder issues are addressed

Is shoulder pain always indicative of gallbladder problems? No, shoulder pain can have many causes, including musculoskeletal issues or referred pain from other organs. However, if shoulder pain occurs in conjunction with other gallbladder symptoms, particularly after meals, it’s worth discussing with a healthcare provider.

Diagnostic Approaches for Gallbladder Issues

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

How are gallstones typically diagnosed? While symptoms can provide important clues, imaging tests are usually necessary to confirm the presence of gallstones. Ultrasound is often the first-line diagnostic tool due to its safety, accessibility, and effectiveness in visualizing gallstones.

Common Diagnostic Tests for Gallbladder Issues

1. Abdominal ultrasound
2. CT scan
3. HIDA scan (to assess gallbladder function)
4. Blood tests (to check for signs of infection or liver problems)
5. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for complex cases

Can gallstones be missed on imaging tests? While ultrasound is highly effective, very small gallstones can sometimes be missed. In cases where symptoms strongly suggest gallbladder issues but initial tests are negative, additional imaging or functional tests may be necessary.

Treatment Options for Gallstones and Cholecystitis

The treatment approach for gallbladder problems depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying condition. Options range from conservative management to surgical intervention.

Is surgery always necessary for gallstones? Not always. For people with asymptomatic gallstones or mild symptoms, a watch-and-wait approach may be recommended. However, for recurrent or severe symptoms, or in cases of cholecystitis, surgery is often the most effective treatment.

Treatment Approaches for Gallbladder Issues

• Watchful waiting for asymptomatic gallstones
• Dietary modifications to reduce symptoms
• Pain management for mild cases
• Medications to dissolve small gallstones (rarely used)
• Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (surgical removal of the gallbladder)
• Open cholecystectomy for complex cases

What is the recovery process like after gallbladder removal? Most patients who undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy can return home the same day or the day after surgery. Full recovery typically takes 1-2 weeks, with most people able to resume normal activities within a week.

Preventing Gallstones and Maintaining Gallbladder Health

While not all gallstones can be prevented, certain lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of developing them and promote overall gallbladder health.

Can diet really help prevent gallstones? Yes, maintaining a healthy diet can play a significant role in gallstone prevention. A diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber has been associated with a reduced risk of gallstone formation.

Strategies for Gallbladder Health

1. Maintain a healthy weight (rapid weight loss can increase gallstone risk)
2. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
3. Stay hydrated
4. Exercise regularly
5. Limit alcohol consumption
6. Avoid crash diets or extreme fasting

Are there supplements that can help prevent gallstones? Some studies suggest that vitamin C and lecithin supplements may help prevent gallstone formation, but more research is needed. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

Gallbladder Health and Overall Wellness

The health of your gallbladder can have far-reaching effects on your overall well-being. Understanding the connection between gallbladder function and general health is important for maintaining optimal wellness.

How does gallbladder health impact digestion? The gallbladder plays a crucial role in fat digestion by storing and releasing bile. When the gallbladder isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to difficulties in digesting fatty foods, potentially causing nutritional deficiencies and digestive discomfort.

The Gallbladder’s Role in Overall Health

• Aids in fat digestion and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
• Helps regulate cholesterol metabolism
• Supports liver function
• Influences gut microbiome health
• May affect hormonal balance

Can gallbladder problems affect other organs? Yes, untreated gallbladder issues can potentially impact other organs. For example, gallstones that block bile ducts can lead to pancreatic inflammation or liver problems. This underscores the importance of addressing gallbladder symptoms promptly.

Living Without a Gallbladder: What to Expect

For many people with severe gallbladder issues, cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) is the recommended treatment. Understanding what life is like after this procedure can help alleviate concerns and prepare patients for post-surgery adjustments.

Is it possible to live a normal life without a gallbladder? Absolutely. The body can adapt to the absence of a gallbladder, with the liver taking over the function of releasing bile directly into the small intestine. Most people can return to their normal diet and activities after recovery.

Adjusting to Life After Gallbladder Removal

1. Gradual reintroduction of fatty foods
2. Potential need for digestive enzymes or bile salt supplements
3. Increased fiber intake to help regulate bowel movements
4. Monitoring for rare post-surgery complications
5. Regular check-ups to ensure proper healing and digestion

Are there long-term dietary restrictions after gallbladder removal? While most people can eventually return to their normal diet, some may need to make permanent adjustments, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals or limiting very high-fat foods to avoid digestive discomfort.

The Future of Gallbladder Treatment and Research

As medical science advances, new approaches to diagnosing and treating gallbladder issues are emerging. Staying informed about these developments can provide hope and options for those dealing with gallbladder problems.

What new treatments are on the horizon for gallstones? Researchers are exploring less invasive alternatives to surgery, including improved medications for stone dissolution and novel techniques for stone removal without gallbladder removal.

Emerging Trends in Gallbladder Care

• Advanced imaging techniques for earlier and more accurate diagnosis
• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic factors
• Minimally invasive procedures for stone removal
• Potential use of probiotics to prevent stone formation
• Research into gallbladder regeneration techniques

How might artificial intelligence impact gallbladder care? AI has the potential to revolutionize gallbladder disease management by improving diagnostic accuracy, predicting treatment outcomes, and personalizing care plans based on individual patient data.

In conclusion, understanding the complexities of gallbladder health, from the surprising symptom of shortness of breath to the latest treatment options, is crucial for anyone dealing with or at risk for gallstone issues. By recognizing symptoms early, seeking appropriate medical care, and making informed lifestyle choices, individuals can take control of their gallbladder health and overall well-being. As research continues to advance our understanding of gallbladder function and disease, the future holds promise for even more effective and personalized approaches to gallbladder care.

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

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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?

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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

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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

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• 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

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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.