Acute cholecystitis

By | April 3, 2025
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Acute Cholecystitis: Everything You Need to Know

1. Overview

Acute cholecystitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver, which stores bile produced by the liver. This condition can be caused by gallstones blocking the bile ducts or by bacterial infections. In the U.S., acute cholecystitis affects approximately 1.2 million people annually, making it a relatively common condition.

2. Symptoms

Common Symptoms:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever
  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

Less Common Symptoms:

  • Chills
  • Clay-colored stools
  • Dark urine
  • Indigestion

Symptoms of acute cholecystitis usually progress over time, with the pain becoming increasingly severe. Early warning signs may include intermittent pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after eating fatty or greasy foods.

3. Causes & Risk Factors

Acute cholecystitis can be caused by gallstones blocking the bile ducts, leading to inflammation. Other causes include infections, tumors, or injury to the bile ducts. Risk factors for developing acute cholecystitis include being female, over 40 years old, overweight, having a family history of gallstones, and a high-fat diet.

4. Diagnosis

Common diagnostic tests for acute cholecystitis include blood tests to check for signs of infection or inflammation, imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scan to visualize the gallbladder, and sometimes a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Primary care doctors may refer patients to gastrointestinal specialists for further evaluation and treatment.

5. Treatment Options

Treatment for acute cholecystitis may include antibiotics to treat the infection, pain medications to manage symptoms, and in severe cases, surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet low in fat, regular exercise, and stress management can also help manage the condition. Alternative treatments like herbal remedies or acupuncture may provide symptomatic relief.

6. Prevention

Preventive measures for acute cholecystitis include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet low in fat, and staying hydrated. Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B can help prevent infections that lead to cholecystitis. Regular screenings for gallstones and early intervention can also reduce the risk of developing the condition.

7. Complications & When to See a Doctor

Potential complications of acute cholecystitis include gallbladder rupture, which can lead to a life-threatening infection. It is important to seek urgent medical care if you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, or jaundice. These symptoms may indicate a serious complication requiring immediate treatment.

8. Living with the Condition

Managing acute cholecystitis involves following doctor’s recommendations, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking support from healthcare providers and support groups. In the U.S., resources such as the American Liver Foundation and the American College of Gastroenterology offer information and support for individuals living with gallbladder conditions. Workplace accommodations may be necessary, and patients should be aware of their rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

9. FAQs

Q: Can I prevent gallstones from forming?

A: While gallstones are common, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet.

Q: Are there non-surgical treatments for acute cholecystitis?

A: In some cases, antibiotics and lifestyle changes may help manage symptoms without the need for surgery.

10. Sources & References

For more information on acute cholecystitis, consult reputable sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Mayo Clinic, WebMD, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
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  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
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  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

If you need a printable checklist or PDF version of this guide, let me know and I’ll create one for you.