Acute Cholecystitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Acute cholecystitis is a
sudden inflammation of the gallbladder, often triggered by a gallstone
obstructing the cystic duct—the channel through which bile exits the
gallbladder. This condition requires prompt medical attention due to the
potential for serious complications if left untreated.
What Is
the Gallbladder and Why Is It Important?
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped
organ situated beneath the liver. Its primary function is to store and
concentrate bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps in
breaking down dietary fats. When food, especially fatty meals, enters the
digestive tract, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine.
Although the gallbladder plays a role in digestion, it is not essential. People can live healthy lives without it, especially if gallbladder issues become recurrent or severe.