an inflammation of the gallbladder, usually associated with gallstones. when the condition is acute, there is usually bacteria within the swollen, reddened, and sometimes pus-filled gallbladder. pain is usually felt on the right side of the stomach area, and vomiting, nausea, and chills are present. when the condition is chronic, the gallbladder is usually contracted, greyish-white and thickened. Pain is felt particularly after fatty meals, and the patient is nauseous and colicky. treatment is usually removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy), particularly if gallstones are present.