The spleen is a small organ located just below the ribcage on the left side. Normally, the spleen is the size of a fist, but a number of conditions can cause a swelling of the organ, also known as splenomegaly.
Most people do not have symptoms of enlargement of the spleen. The problem is often discovered during a routine examination.
Symptoms
An enlarged spleen can cause:
No symptoms
Pain or fullness in the abdomen the upper left which can extend up to the left shoulder
Feeling of fullness that can occur when an enlarged spleen presses on the stomach
Anemia
Fatigue
Frequent infections
Easy bleeding
Consult your doctor if you have pain in the upper left corner, especially if it is severe or if the pain gets worse when you take a deep breath.
Causes
A number of infections and diseases can contribute to an enlarged spleen. The effects on the spleen may be only temporary.
How does the spleen
The spleen is hidden under the rib cage next to the stomach on the left of 'abdomen. It is a spongy organ that performs several critical jobs and that can be easily damaged. Among other things, the spleen:
Filter and destroys old blood cells and damaged
Plays a key role in preventing infections by producing white blood cells called lymphocytes
It has important hematopoietic functions
It can act as an intermediary between the immune system and brain
An enlarged spleen affects each of these vital functions.
