Do all patients with gallstones have cholecystitis?

Not all patients with gallstones have cholecystitis. Gallstones are solid crystals formed due to abnormal components in bile, while cholecystitis is an inflammatory disease of the gallbladder. Some patients with gallstones may have no signs of gallbladder inflammation for a long time. However, gallstones are a major contributing factor in triggering cholecystitis. If symptoms such as right upper abdominal pain or fever occur, prompt medical attention is recommended.

The majority of gallstone patients remain in an "asymptomatic carrier" state for extended periods. When gallstones do not block the cystic duct or irritate the gallbladder wall, gallbladder function remains normal and there are no symptoms related to inflammation. These cases are often discovered incidentally during routine health checkups. Such patients do not require treatment targeting cholecystitis but should undergo regular monitoring for changes in the stones.

When gallstones move and obstruct the cystic duct or repeatedly rub against the gallbladder wall, bile stasis and bacterial growth can occur, leading to cholecystitis. This manifests as right upper abdominal pain, nausea, fever, and other symptoms. In addition, prolonged irritation of the gallbladder wall by gallstones may gradually lead to chronic inflammation. Although symptoms may be mild, imaging or examination may reveal gallbladder wall thickening and roughness.

In daily life, individuals with gallstones should maintain a low-fat diet, avoid overeating, and eat regularly to promote bile excretion and reduce the risk of stone movement. Regular ultrasound examinations are also recommended to monitor the condition of the gallbladder and stones, thereby maintaining gallbladder health.