Fact 2: Causes – Not Just One Culprit
While gallstones blocking the cystic duct are often the main offenders, the origins of cholecystitis can be diverse. It’s a condition that doesn’t singularly point at one root cause. This complexity in its inception demands a broader understanding.
To begin with, let’s address the most well-known cause: gallstones. These are hard particles that develop in the gallbladder. Often, they are silent occupants, causing no overt symptoms. But when they block the cystic duct—the tube through which bile flows—they become the prime culprits behind cholecystitis.
Beyond gallstones, tumors can also be a contributing factor. While not as common, they can block the bile ducts, mimicking the effects of gallstones. It’s a more indirect cause, where the tumor itself doesn’t lead to inflammation, but its obstruction does. Infections also enter the mix. Bacterial infections can inflame the gallbladder, especially in those with conditions like HIV or diabetes. Such scenarios often escalate when the infected bile remains trapped in the gallbladder.
Certain conditions can indirectly foster an environment conducive to cholecystitis. For instance, decreased blood flow to the gallbladder due to heart failure can result in inflammation. Similarly, rapid weight loss can lead to an imbalance in the bile components, forming gallstones. (2)
