Must patients with cholecystitis strictly fast and abstain from fluids?

In general, whether patients with cholecystitis need to fast and abstain from fluids depends on the specific stage and severity of their condition—it cannot be universally applied. The detailed analysis is as follows:

When cholecystitis is in an acute phase with severe symptoms, fasting and fluid restriction are usually required. During this time, inflammation of the gallbladder is intense, and gallbladder contractions can worsen pain. Consuming food or fluids may stimulate gallbladder contraction, intensifying the inflammatory response and potentially aggravating symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Withholding food and fluids allows the gallbladder to rest fully, reduces bile secretion, and creates favorable conditions for controlling inflammation. Meanwhile, intravenous fluid administration is necessary to maintain the body's hydration and nutritional needs.

When cholecystitis is in a remission phase or symptoms are mild, fasting and fluid restriction are not necessary. In these cases, inflammation is relatively stable and gallbladder function is not severely impaired. Patients may drink warm water in moderation and consume light, easily digestible liquid or semi-liquid foods such as rice soup or thin porridge. This helps avoid overburdening the gallbladder while ensuring basic nutritional intake to support recovery.

During periods of fasting and fluid restriction, patients must strictly follow medical advice and should not consume food or fluids on their own. In the remission phase, diet should be reintroduced gradually, progressing from liquid foods to a normal diet, while avoiding greasy, spicy, raw, or cold foods. Patients should closely monitor changes in symptoms such as abdominal pain and fever, and promptly inform their doctor if symptoms suddenly worsen or new discomfort arises. Maintaining regular作息 (daily routines), avoiding fatigue, and getting adequate rest during recovery can promote healing.