3. Gallbladder Inflammation
Swelling of the gallbladder, also known as cholecystitis, causes a steady and severe pain in the right upper and middle upper portion of the abdomen. This pain, also referred to as biliary colic, is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever. It is important to seek medical consult if you experience this kind of pain.
Thorough physical examination by a doctor would reveal a telltale tenderness in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen when pressed. The physician may then order an ultrasound which may or may not show stones present. A CT scan is also ordered to see the extent of the organ swelling. Blood tests are also important in finding out the presence of infection.
Cholecystitis is treated with a combination of fasting (usually from fatty food), pain relievers, and antibiotics (if infection is seen). However, severe cases may call for surgery which involves to total removal of the gallbladder.
