Symptoms and Recognition of Acute Cholecystitis presents with a sudden onset of pain, often so severe it brings patients to the emergency room. Recognising the signs early can lead to quicker intervention and better outcomes.
Primary Symptoms
- Severe pain in the upper right abdomen
- May radiate to the right shoulder or back
- Often worsens after eating (especially fatty meals)
- Fever and chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tenderness over the gallbladder (Murphy’s sign)
- Bloating and indigestion
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes) in severe cases
Pain usually begins suddenly and builds rapidly over 1–3 hours. It typically lasts more than six hours. Patients may have difficulty taking deep breaths due to pain.
In rural areas of South Africa, where medical facilities may be scarce, patients often delay seeking care, which can worsen outcomes.
When to Seek Emergency Care for Symptoms and Recognition of Acute Cholecystitis
- Intense upper abdominal pain lasting more than a few hours
- Pain accompanied by fever or jaundice
- Vomiting that doesn’t subside
🔹 Next → [Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Cholecystitis]
Complications and Long-Term Outlook of Acute Cholecystitis
