What is Cholecystitis and the common signs and symptoms associated with it?

Cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver that stores and concentrates bile for digestion. The most common cause of cholecystitis is the presence of gallstones in the gallbladder, which can block the flow of bile leading to infection and inflammation. Common signs and symptoms associated with cholecystitis include abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, fever or chills, loss of appetite, and tenderness in the upper right abdomen. Other possible symptoms may include bloating or swelling in this region as well as yellowing of the skin due to jaundice if there is severe obstruction causing bile to back up into other organs. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan combined with blood tests. Treatment usually consists of antibiotics to reduce infection as well as surgical removal of any obstructive stones within the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) if needed to restore normal function.