Symptoms And Dietary Management Of Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis, an inflammation of the gallbladder, typically falls into two categories: acute and chronic. Acute cholecystitis often presents with sudden pain in the upper right abdomen, which may radiate to the back or right shoulder. This discomfort usually occurs after consuming high-fat foods such as eggs, meats, or dairy products. These types of meals can trigger biliary colic, leading to severe discomfort. In some cases, especially when gallstones are present, patients may develop gallstone pancreatitis, accompanied by symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

During acute flare-ups, medical treatment with anti-inflammatory medications is crucial. Patients are advised to follow a low-fat, bland diet to reduce the strain on the gallbladder. Avoiding high-fat foods like eggs, milk, and meats is essential during this period. With proper treatment and dietary adjustments, most patients experience significant improvement within 3–5 days.

In contrast, chronic cholecystitis typically causes milder, recurring discomfort in the back or right shoulder area. For chronic cases, oral medications such as Cefixime, anti-inflammatory bile-stimulating tablets, or bile soothing capsules are often recommended. A treatment course lasting approximately 7–10 days, combined with a consistently light diet, generally leads to recovery or symptom relief. However, unlike acute cases, patients with chronic cholecystitis can cautiously include small amounts of higher-fat foods like eggs, milk, and lean meats in their diet. It is generally advised to limit egg consumption to no more than 2–3 per week.

Maintaining a balanced and mindful diet is key to managing both acute and chronic forms of cholecystitis. Patients should work closely with healthcare professionals to tailor their dietary choices and ensure long-term gallbladder health.