What is subacute cholecystitis?

Subacute cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder that occurs more gradually and less severely than acute cholecystitis. Symptoms may include:

- Pain in the upper abdomen that lasts more than a few hours

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Fever

- Chills

Subacute cholecystitis is often caused by gallstones that block the cystic duct, the small tube that carries bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine. Gallstones can form when bile becomes too concentrated and crystallizes.

Risk factors for subacute cholecystitis include:

- Obesity

- High blood pressure

- High cholesterol

- Diabetes

- Pregnancy

Treatment for subacute cholecystitis typically involves antibiotics to treat the infection and pain medication. Surgery to remove the gallbladder may be necessary if the condition does not improve with antibiotics.