Cholecystitis: Causes

What causes cholecystitis?

Cholecystitis is caused by multiple factors, including obstruction of a bile duct by gallstones, infection, injury, or tumor. The most common cause of cholecystitis is cholelithiasis, or gallstones, that cause obstructions in the bile ducts. Cholecystitis caused by infection, trauma and tumors can result in possible blockage and perforation of the gallbladder.

When acute cholecystitis occurs, it may interfere with the flow of bile and cause bile to become trapped in the gallbladder, resulting in inflammation and possible bacterial infection. In rare cases, perforation of the gallbladder is also possible. Chronic cholecystitis is commonly caused by recurring episodes of acute cholecystitis, resulting in thickening of the gallbladder walls and a loss of gallbladder function.

What are the risk factors for cholecystitis?

A number of factors increase the risk of developing cholecystitis. Not all people with risk factors will get cholecystitis. Risk factors for cholecystitis include:

• Age over 40 years
• Diabetes
• Female gender
• Gallstones
• Injury to the gallbladder
• Overweight or obesity

Reducing your risk of cholecystitis

Although some risk factors, such as age and gender, cannot be modified, you may be able to lower your risk of cholecystitis through lifestyle changes including:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Getting regular physical activity
• Losing weight slowly
• Maintaining a healthy weight