The spleen is an organ that plays a role in overall health. While pain originating directly from the spleen is not a common complaint, its occurrence can indicate an underlying health concern. Understanding potential sources of discomfort helps determine when medical attention is beneficial.
The Spleen’s Function and Location
The spleen is an organ located in the upper left abdomen, positioned beneath the rib cage and above the stomach. In a healthy adult, it is typically about the size of a fist or avocado, and usually cannot be felt during a physical examination unless it is enlarged. It is part of the lymphatic system, a component of the body’s immune system.
The spleen performs several functions that support the body’s health. It filters blood, removing old or damaged red blood cells and cellular waste. It also helps fight infection by producing white blood cells and antibodies. Additionally, it stores blood, including red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells, and plays a role in recycling iron for future use.
Common Causes of Spleen Pain
Spleen pain can arise from various conditions, often indicating that the organ is affected by disease, infection, or injury. A frequent cause is splenomegaly, which refers to an enlarged spleen. Numerous conditions can lead to splenomegaly, including infections such as mononucleosis, malaria, or endocarditis, as well as liver diseases like cirrhosis. Blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, or autoimmune diseases like lupus and sarcoidosis, can also cause the spleen to enlarge. An enlarged spleen can press on nearby organs, leading to discomfort or a feeling of fullness even after consuming small amounts of food.
Another cause of spleen pain is a spleen rupture, which is considered a medical emergency. This can occur due to direct trauma, such as from car accidents or sports injuries. In some instances, a severely enlarged spleen may rupture spontaneously. A splenic infarction can also cause pain; this happens when the blood supply to a part of the spleen is blocked, resulting in tissue damage or death. Conditions that lead to blood clots or certain heart diseases can contribute to splenic infarction.
Less common causes of spleen pain include a splenic abscess, which is a collection of pus due to an infection within the spleen. Symptoms of an abscess often include fever and abdominal pain. Cysts or tumors, including those that have spread from other parts of the body, can also affect the spleen and potentially lead to discomfort.
Identifying Spleen Pain Symptoms
Spleen pain typically presents as discomfort in the upper left side of the abdomen, located behind the left ribs. The nature of the pain can vary, ranging from a dull ache to a sharp or sudden sensation. Sometimes, the affected area may also feel tender to the touch.
The pain can sometimes extend or “radiate” to other areas. For example, it may spread to the left shoulder or back. This referred pain, particularly to the left shoulder, is known as Kehr’s sign and can be associated with conditions like a ruptured spleen, especially if blood irritates the diaphragm. The pain might also worsen with deep breathing, coughing, or when lying on the left side.
Other symptoms may accompany spleen pain. These include fever, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or easy bruising and bleeding. These additional symptoms can sometimes point to the underlying condition affecting the spleen, such as anemia or frequent infections.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience persistent or unexplained pain in the upper left abdomen. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if the pain is severe, sudden in onset, or rapidly worsening. This is especially true if the pain occurs after a traumatic injury to the abdomen, as this could indicate a ruptured spleen, which is a time-sensitive medical concern.
Immediate medical care is necessary if spleen pain is accompanied by signs of shock, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, rapid heart rate, confusion, or cold, clammy skin. These symptoms can suggest internal bleeding. A healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the cause of spleen pain through physical examination, imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scans, and blood tests. Relying on professional diagnosis is important for appropriate treatment and management.