Cholecystitis and Cholangitis Treatment
The gallbladder stores bile from the liver and delivers it to the small intestines for digestion through a small bile duct. Gall stones and other conditions can cause inflammation in the gallbladder (cholecystitis) and bile duct (cholangitis), resulting in abdominal pain, fever and other symptoms. Danny Shouhed, M.D. offers cholecystitis and cholangitis treatment at our medical center in Los Angeles.
Cholangitis occurs when bacteria is trapped in the bile duct, creating inflammation and infection. This can be caused by blockages in the bile duct from gall stones or a tumor. HIV and sclerosing cholangitis are also risk factors that can result in narrowing of the bile duct that can lead to infection and inflammation. Cholangitis is often paired with cholecystitis, with similar symptoms and treatments.
Cholecystitis Symptoms and Treatments
Cholecystitis is the most common disorder involving gall stones and the gallbladder. This disorder is an inflammation of the gallbladder that is usually caused by a backup of bile if the bile duct is blocked. Gall stones, tumors and other issues can block the bile duct, resulting in too much bile and inflammation. Symptoms of cholecystitis include:
- Fever
- Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
- Pain radiating to the back and right shoulder
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tenderness on the upper right abdomen
In some cases, cholecystitis symptoms will come and go right after a big or fatty meal if a gall stone blocks the bile duct temporarily. However, if the symptoms persist, medical treatment is required. Cholecystitis may require admittance to a hospital to be treated with antibiotics and fluids. If the bile duct is blocked, surgery may be required to remove the blockage, usually gall stones. In severe cases, the gallbladder may need to be removed through a cholecystectomy.
If you have symptoms of cholangitis or cholecystitis, contact us at the office of Dr. Danny Shouhed. We can schedule an exam and consultation with Dr. Shouhed to discuss the best treatment options for your gallbladder disorder.