Acute cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder. It most often develops when a gallstone blocks the cystic duct, causing bile to build up and the gallbladder to become inflamed. It can lead to serious complications and usually requires urgent medical assessment.
Symptoms
- Persistent pain in the upper right abdomen
- Pain that may spread toward the right shoulder or back
- Tenderness over the upper right abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever or chills
- Sometimes jaundice
Gallstone pain may begin after a meal and can last for hours. Persistent pain, fever or jaundice raises concern for a complication rather than uncomplicated silent gallstones.
Diagnosis
A healthcare professional may use the medical history, abdominal examination, blood tests and imaging. Ultrasound is commonly used to look for gallstones and signs of gallbladder inflammation. Other imaging may be needed when the diagnosis is uncertain or a bile duct complication is suspected.
Treatment
Treatment commonly takes place in a hospital and may include fluids, pain treatment and antibiotics when infection is suspected. For many people, surgery to remove the gallbladder is the definitive treatment. The timing and type of treatment depend on the severity of illness and the person’s overall health.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent medical care for upper right abdominal pain that lasts several hours, especially with nausea or vomiting, fever or chills, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine or pale stools. These symptoms can indicate inflammation, infection or blockage involving the gallbladder, bile ducts, liver or pancreas.
Use your local emergency medical service for collapse, confusion, severe weakness, breathing difficulty or rapidly worsening illness.
Related topics
Sources
Last reviewed: 4 September 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This information is general and does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment.