Gallbladder issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Gallstones: Most cases of gallbladder inflammation, or cholecystitis, are caused by gallstones blocking the tube leading out of the gallbladder. Gallstones are hard particles that develop in the gallbladder and can block the cystic duct through which bile flows when it leaves the gallbladder. This results in a bile buildup that can cause inflammation.

• Bile duct problems: Stones or thickened bile and tiny particles (sludge) can block the bile duct and lead to cholecystitis. Kinking or scarring of the bile ducts can also cause blockage.

• Tumors: A tumor may prevent bile from draining out of the gallbladder properly, causing bile buildup that can lead to cholecystitis. Tumors of the gallbladder and bile ducts can also cause gallbladder disease.

• Infection: Certain infections, such as AIDS and certain viral infections, can trigger gallbladder inflammation.

• Serious illness: Very severe illness can damage blood vessels and lead to gallbladder inflammation.

• Congenital defects of the gallbladder: These can cause gallbladder disease.

• Excess cholesterol or bilirubin in bile: Gallstones can form when there is too much cholesterol or bilirubin in bile. Certain conditions can cause your liver to make too much bilirubin, including liver cirrhosis, biliary tract infections, and certain blood disorders.

• Certain blood disorders: Having certain blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia or leukemia, can increase the risk of gallstones.

• Rapid weight loss: Losing weight very quickly can increase the risk of gallstones.

• Taking certain medications: Taking medications that contain estrogen, such as oral contraceptives or hormone therapy drugs, can increase the risk of gallstones.

Symptoms of gallbladder issues can include intermittent pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, fever, and dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, ...