Symptom 4: Jaundice
When someone mentions jaundice, the first image that often springs to mind is a yellowish tint to the skin and eyes. Acalculous cholecystitis can, indeed, lead to this symptom. But what exactly is happening? Let’s dive deeper.
Jaundice isn’t just a surface symptom; it’s indicative of a deeper disruption. It essentially signifies an accumulation of bilirubin, a yellow compound, in the blood and tissues. For those dealing with acalculous cholecystitis, the inflamed gallbladder can impede the flow of bile, leading to this buildup.
Now, you might wonder, why the yellowing? Well, bilirubin has a distinct yellow hue. So when it’s not properly processed due to a malfunctioning gallbladder, it starts to deposit in various parts of the body, leading to that characteristic discoloration. However, it’s not just about the color. Jaundice, in the context of acalculous cholecystitis, might also manifest as itchiness. Imagine the discomfort of constantly feeling an itch that doesn’t subside. This can be attributed to the buildup of bile salts under the skin.
Furthermore, the presence of jaundice can also affect one’s stools and urine. Dark-colored urine and pale stools can accompany this symptom. It’s the body’s way of showing that the usual processing of bilirubin is going awry. (4)
