What are the early symptoms of cholecystitis in women?
Early symptoms of cholecystitis in women may include right upper quadrant abdominal pain, indigestion, fever, nausea and vomiting, and jaundice. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Right upper quadrant pain: Pain caused by inflammation of the gallbladder or irritation of the gallbladder wall is typically located in the right upper abdomen and may radiate to the right shoulder or back.
2. Indigestion: The main function of the gallbladder is to store and release bile. When its function is impaired, the digestive process is affected, leading to symptoms of indigestion such as loss of appetite and bloating.
3. Fever: The inflammatory response caused by cholecystitis leads to an increase in body temperature. Patients often experience fever early in the disease, with body temperature typically ranging between 38-39°C.
4. Nausea and vomiting: Cholecystitis causes impaired bile secretion, affecting digestive function, and patients may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
5. Jaundice: Sphincter spasm at the lower end of the common bile duct or infection spreading to the biliary system may cause jaundice in a minority of patients, characterized by yellowing of the eyes, dark urine, yellow skin, and pale or whitish stool.
If physical discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and follow medical advice for treatment.