Splenic pain - you can do that
The spleen is located on the left side under the costal arch in the upper abdomen. Adjacent are the stomach, kidney and diaphragm. The spleen is shaped a bit like a bean and measures approximately 11cm by 7cm. It has a solid capsule because it is made of very soft tissue and could otherwise be damaged if pressure is applied. The spleen is an important part of the immune system because it kills germs and produces lymphocytes that trap these pathogens and render them harmless. Although the spleen is not a vital organ, it can cause pain that needs to be evaluated in any case.
How is spleen pain expressed?
Pains of the spleen are usually expressed in the lower left abdomen, although they can radiate to the upper abdomen and even to the left shoulder. The pain often comes on suddenly, but it can also be throbbing or intermittent. Pain in the spleen is described as stabbing, when it occurs colicky, then there are often periods of freedom from pain between the individual episodes of pain. The pain can be coupled with Headache, dizziness, and exhaustion nausea.
Causes of spleen pain are, for example, inflammation caused by infections, typical of glandular fever. After-effects of this disease are long-lasting and can cause pain in the spleen.
Spleen pain can also be caused by mechanical injuries caused, such as bruises or impacts in the event of a fall or accident. This is where the spleen can become engorged or ruptured. A broken rib can damage the spleen.
Interactions between the spleen and alcohol
Excessive alcohol consumption also affects the spleen, although not directly. Alcohol can damage the liver to such an extent that cirrhosis (restructuring of liver tissue) develops, which then directly affects the spleen. The blood that should flow through the liver can no longer do so properly when the liver is damaged. A backwater forms in the spleen and the blood cells are increasingly broken down there. As a result, the spleen enlarges, which in turn presses on the surrounding organs, causing pain.
Pain in the spleen should be taken seriously
Pain in the spleen can result from an enlargement of the organ, which in turn can be the result of serious diseases. It can be hepatitis or cirrhosis, which can lead to liver cancer and death.
If the spleen is too enlarged, the spleen may rupture, resulting in heavy bleeding into the abdomen. This can be life-threatening because it could lead to a state of shock.
Blood disorders, such as some leukemia, result in an enlarged spleen. There is an urgent need for action here.
The treatment of pain in the spleen is based on the medical history, which is carried out by a specialist. It can be treated with medication antibiotics, anti-inflammatory agents and / or painkillers may be necessary.
If the spleen is damaged to such an extent that it can no longer perform its tasks and is on the verge of a heart attack, it may be necessary to surgically remove it. The liver, the red bone marrow and the lymphatic system then take over their tasks. You can live without a spleen, but then you are more susceptible to infections. It is important to pay attention to vaccinations. The doctor treating you will explain everything you need to know. In any case, it is important not to put off an appointment with a specialist, but to take action as quickly as possible!
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