The spleen is an important organ in your body that sits under your ribcage on the left side of your abdomen. It plays a crucial role in your immune system and helps filter out old and damaged blood cells.

However, when the spleen becomes swollen, it can indicate an underlying health problem that requires immediate attention. In this article, we’ll discuss the potential dangers of a swollen spleen and what you should watch out for.

What Causes Swollen Spleen?

There are several possible causes of a swollen spleen, including:.

Infections: Spleen swelling is often caused by infections such as mononucleosis, bacterial infections, and parasitic infections.
Liver disease: Certain liver conditions, such as cirrhosis, can cause the spleen to enlarge.
Blood diseases: Blood disorders like leukemia and lymphoma can cause the spleen to become swollen and painful.
Inflammatory conditions: Some inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can cause spleen swelling.
Trauma: In rare cases, trauma to the abdomen can cause the spleen to rupture and become swollen.

Symptoms of Swollen Spleen

When your spleen is swollen, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:.

Pain or discomfort: Swelling of the spleen can cause a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the left upper part of the abdomen.
Fatigue: Swollen spleen can cause anemia, which may lead to fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Bleeding: Enlarged spleen can lead to clotting or bruising issues and cause unexplained bleeding.
Fever: Infection of the spleen or the resulting illness may cause an increase in body temperature.
Infections: An infected spleen may lead to bacterial infections, respiratory infections, and infections of the bloodstream.

Risks and Complications from a Swollen Spleen

It’s important to watch out for potential dangers when your spleen is swollen. Complications can arise from letting a swollen spleen go untreated, such as:.

Blood clotting issues: When the spleen is enlarged, it can cause blood clotting issues. If a clot forms, it can travel to the lungs or other organs and lead to injury or death.
Immune system issues: When the spleen is swollen, it can cause issues with the immune system, leaving you more susceptible to infections.
Rupture: Swollen spleen can become so enlarged that it ruptures, causing severe internal bleeding and requiring emergency surgery.
Low blood pressure: When the spleen ruptures, it can cause severe blood loss, leading to a drop in blood pressure and shock.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Swollen Spleen

If you think you might have a swollen spleen, it’s important to see a doctor. They will perform a physical exam and may order tests such as:.

Blood tests: Blood tests can check for infections, blood disorders, and other issues that may cause spleen swelling.
Imaging tests: CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasound can help the doctor see the size of the spleen and check for any abnormalities.
Biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of spleen tissue may be taken to check for cancer or other diseases.

The treatment for a swollen spleen depends on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. In some cases, simply addressing the underlying condition may help reduce the swelling. In other cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the spleen.

Preventing Swollen Spleen

While some causes of a swollen spleen are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to prevent certain conditions that increase your risk:.

Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly and avoid sharing personal items like toothbrushes, razors, and towels.
Stay up-to-date on vaccinations: Certain vaccines, such as the hepatitis A and B vaccines, can help protect against viruses that can cause liver disease and spleen swelling.
Avoid contact sports: Activities that may result in trauma to the spleen, such as contact sports, should be avoided to reduce the risk of rupture.
Seek medical attention promptly: If you suspect you have an infection or other condition that may cause spleen swelling, seek medical attention promptly to reduce the risk of complications.

Conclusion

Swelling of the spleen can be a sign of an underlying health condition that requires prompt attention. If you experience any symptoms of a swollen spleen, it’s important to see a doctor.

Treatment for a swollen spleen depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms, and in some cases, may require surgery. By taking steps to prevent certain conditions and seeking prompt medical attention, you can reduce your risk of complications and keep your spleen healthy.