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Spleen pain, typically felt in the upper left abdomen beneath the rib cage, can be a sign of various underlying health issues. While some causes are benign and transient, others may require immediate medical attention. Understanding the potential reasons for spleen discomfort is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. This blog is a one-stop to gather all the information regarding spleen pain.
Synopsis
What is the Spleen and its functions in the body?
The spleen is a vital organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen, beneath the rib cage and above the stomach. As part of both the lymphatic and circulatory systems, it plays several crucial roles in maintaining overall health.
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Size & Location: Approximately the size of an avocado, the spleen resides just under the left rib cage, above the stomach.
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System Involvement: It is an integral component of the lymphatic system, which is a part of the immune system.
Key Functions of the Spleen
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Blood Filtration: Removes old, damaged, or malformed red blood cells from circulation.
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Immune Response: Produces white blood cells and antibodies to fight infections.
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Blood Storage: Stores red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells, releasing them as needed.
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Iron Recycling: Breaks down haemoglobin from old red blood cells, recycling iron for new blood cell production.
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Fluid Balance: Helps maintain the balance of bodily fluids.
10 Common Causes of Spleen Pain
1. Enlarged Spleen (Splenomegaly)
An enlarged spleen, or splenomegaly, is one of the most common causes of spleen pain. It can result from infections, liver diseases, cancers, and blood disorders. Symptoms may include a feeling of fullness after eating a small amount, fatigue, and frequent infections.
2. Ruptured Spleen
A ruptured spleen is a medical emergency often caused by trauma, such as car accidents or sports injuries. It can lead to internal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Immediate medical intervention is necessary to prevent life-threatening complications.
3. Infections
Certain infections can cause spleen inflammation and pain. These include:
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Mononucleosis: Often leads to spleen enlargement and tenderness.
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Malaria: A parasitic infection that can cause spleen swelling.
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Hepatitis: Liver infection that may affect the spleen size.
These infections can lead to spleen enlargement and discomfort.
4. Liver Diseases
Conditions like cirrhosis can cause portal hypertension, leading to spleen enlargement and pain. This is due to increased pressure in the portal vein system, causing blood to back up into the spleen.
5. Blood Disorders
Diseases affecting blood cells can impact spleen function:
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Hemolytic Anaemia: Accelerated destruction of red blood cells leads to spleen overactivity.
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Sickle Cell Disease: Abnormal red blood cells can block blood flow in the spleen, causing pain.
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Thalassemia: A genetic disorder leading to excessive destruction of red blood cells, affecting the spleen.
These conditions can cause spleen enlargement and associated discomfort.
6. Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune conditions can lead to spleen involvement:
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Rheumatoid Arthritis: Chronic inflammation can cause spleen enlargement.
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Lupus: A systemic autoimmune disease that may affect the spleen.
These diseases can cause spleen enlargement and discomfort.
7. Cancers
Certain cancers can involve the spleen:
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Leukaemia: Cancer of blood-forming tissues, including the spleen.
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Lymphoma: Cancer of the lymphatic system that can cause spleen enlargement.
These malignancies can lead to spleen enlargement and pain.
8. Splenic Infarction
A splenic infarction occurs when the blood supply to the spleen is compromised, leading to tissue death. It can cause sudden, sharp pain in the upper left abdomen and may be associated with conditions like sickle cell disease or blood clots.
9. Subphrenic Abscess
An abscess beneath the diaphragm, known as a subphrenic abscess, can irritate the spleen and cause pain. It often results from abdominal infections or post-surgical complications and may present with fever, chills, and left shoulder pain.
10. Trauma
Blunt abdominal trauma, such as from sports injuries or accidents, can damage the spleen. Even without rupture, trauma can cause bruising or hematoma formation, leading to pain and tenderness in the upper left abdomen.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience persistent or severe pain in the upper left abdomen, especially if accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or low blood pressure, seek immediate medical care. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications.
Maintaining Spleen Health
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Stay up-to-date with vaccinations to prevent infections.
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Avoid activities that risk abdominal trauma.
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Manage chronic conditions effectively.
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Seek regular medical check-ups to monitor spleen health.
Conclusion
Understanding the causes of spleen pain can empower you to take proactive steps in maintaining your health. Always consult our Gastroenterologist in Jaipur for personalised advice and treatment.
FAQ's
Diagnosis involves:
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Physical Examination: Checking for tenderness or enlargement.
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Blood Tests: To detect infections, anemia, or blood disorders.
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Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI to visualize spleen size and structure.
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Bone Marrow Examination: In cases where blood cancers are suspected.
In Jaipur, numerous diagnostic centers and hospitals offer these tests.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
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Medications: Antibiotics for bacterial infections, antivirals for viral infections, or chemotherapy for cancers.
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Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding contact sports to prevent trauma.
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Surgery: In severe cases, a splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) may be necessary.
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Vaccinations: Post-splenectomy, vaccinations are crucial to prevent infections.
Yes, especially if caused by a ruptured spleen, which can lead to internal bleeding. Symptoms requiring immediate attention include:
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Severe Abdominal Pain: Sudden and intense pain in the upper left abdomen.
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Dizziness or Fainting: Due to blood loss.
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Low Blood Pressure: Indicative of internal bleeding.
If these symptoms occur, seek emergency medical care immediately.
While not all causes are preventable, certain measures can reduce risk:
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Vaccinations: To prevent infections like hepatitis and malaria.
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Safe Practices: Using seatbelts and protective gear during activities to prevent trauma.
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Regular Check-ups: Monitoring for underlying conditions that may affect the spleen.
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Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding excessive alcohol to prevent liver diseases.
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