Spleen Pain Causes

The spleen is an organ which is a part of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is an extensive network of vessels that carry clear fluid containing protein molecules, glucose, urea, salts, etc. throughout the body. The spleen helps the lymphatic system to drain out all infection causing foreign bodies and damaged or worn out red blood cells. The spleen is generally the size of an individuals fist, but it can vary in size. However, if it enlarges beyond normal limits, it is vulnerable to a rupture. An enlarged spleen results in pain and discomfort and can be a vital tell-tale sign of an existing disease and disorder. Let us try and understand spleen pain causes by reading about the various health complications that can trigger them.

Causes of Spleen Pain
As the spleen is a soft, spongy organ, responsible for many critical functions in the body, it can easily be damaged. Enlargement of the spleen is not considered healthy, as it can affect vital functions. Among other damaging effects, an enlarged spleen will filter both; normal red blood cells and damaged red blood cells, thereby reducing the number of healthy cells in the bloodstream. It also traps platelets, that can clog the spleen, resulting in interference with the normal functioning of the lymphatic system. Some of the spleen problem causes are given below:

• Pressure on the lymphatic vessels, due to the presence of blockage or clots
• Viral infections such as mononucleosis which is more likely to occur in adolescents and adults. Children may also suffer from this viral disease, however the incidence is lower as compared to adults.
• Bacterial infections, such as syphilis or endocarditis; an infection of the heart's inner lining
• Parasitic infections, such as malaria or toxoplasmosis
• Intense pressure on the liver, or liver diseases like cirrhosis
• Any condition where premature destruction of red blood cells occurs.
• Cancer of the white blood cells; leukemia
• Hodgkin's disease; a type of lymphoma
• Any metabolic disorder like Niemann-Pick disease and Gaucher's disease
• Glycogen storage diseases or amyloidosis
• Any injury or blow to the organ, caused due to accidents or physical trauma
• A cyst or a large pus filled abscess close to the spleen
• Any inflammatory disease like rheumatoid arthritis

Spleen Pain Symptoms
The symptoms of this disorder do not exhibit themselves very prominently, unless the organ is enlarged to a greater extent and there is a risk of rupture. However, if one feels any of following symptoms listed below, consult a doctor, without further delay.

• Severe pain while taking deep breath
• An uncomfortable feeling, or pain in the upper left side of the abdomen.
• A feeling of fullness even after eating a small meal
• A dull pain in the middle or upper back
• Unexplained weight loss
• Constant feeling of fatigue and restlessness
• A high susceptibility to infections

Spleen Pain Relief Treatment
The treatment for pain in spleen will depend upon its cause. Doctors recommend some tests; blood tests, an ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT) scan, etc. to determine the course of treatment. If the spleen pain is being caused by an infection, then antibiotics are prescribed. Cancer causing spleen enlargement are treated with chemotherapy or radiation. If the spleen is close to a rupture, then splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) is the best treatment option available. Spleen removal increases an individual's vulnerability to other infections, thus, certain vaccines and antibiotic medication are prescribed to boost the body's immune system.

A painful or enlarged spleen can be saved from a rupture if one modifies activities that can hurt the spleen. Untreated spleen pain causes can be life-threatening, so it is better to be aware of the symptoms and treat them in the initial stages to prevent further complications. Take care!