Abdominal pain can signal not only problems with the stomach, intestines or kidneys, but also damage to the spleen. It is useful to obtain information about where the organ is located and what problems may occur in its functioning before consulting a doctor. This will make it easier for the specialist to collect complaints and subsequently diagnose.

This unpaired organ has the shape of a flattened and slightly elongated hemisphere with a length of 12 cm. The spleen is located in the left hypochondrium (in the upper abdominal cavity), under the diaphragm.

The organ is located at the same level as the stomach, but behind it - closer to the dorsal part of the ribs, above the left kidney and colon.

The spleen is covered by a translucent membrane of the peritoneum and is protected from injury by the ribs. A healthy organ (not enlarged) does not extend beyond the ribs - normally the spleen cannot be palpated.

The importance of the spleen for the body

The spleen and its role in the human body have not yet been fully studied.

According to research, in adults the organ performs the following functions:

• hematopoiesis– production of lymphocytes – blood cells responsible for the body’s immune response;
• blood purification from old or damaged red blood cells and platelets - the iron is then reused, and the waste goes to the liver, where it participates in the formation of bile;
• regulation of blood cellular composition– Separately, it should be noted the accumulation and release of platelets, which ensure blood clotting. Normally, the spleen stores between a third and half of all platelets;
• maintaining immunity– the organ filters blood from bacteria, protozoa and harmful products of their vital activity, heavy metals, as well as substances formed during the breakdown of tissue during burns and injuries. The spleen produces antibodies - special blood proteins that neutralize foreign microorganisms and toxins;
• temporary blood storage– when blood flow is disrupted, the spleen absorbs excess blood, increasing in size. When the failure goes away, the blood is thrown back into the general channel.

The spleen can fully perform the hematopoietic function, this happens:

• during embryonic development - shortly before the birth of a child, hematopoiesis comes under the control of the bone marrow;
• in adults – in case of malfunction of the bone marrow.

There is a theory about the participation of the spleen in metabolism and regulation of hematopoiesis in healthy people - however, these mechanisms have not been fully described.

How does the spleen hurt?

The spleen - where it is located and how this organ hurts is of interest to many. The spleen (like the liver) is devoid of pain receptors, but in the presence of inflammation it can increase in size and put pressure on nearby organs or vessels.

The result is the following types of pain syndrome:

Since the main cause of pain is organ enlargement (splenomegaly), it is often characterized as pinching, squeezing or bursting.

Causes of pain

The spleen rarely bothers a person with pain.

More rare causes of pain may be splenic tuberculosis or purpura - the appearance of many cysts filled with blood in the tissues of the organ. In most cases, organ enlargement is secondary - it is provoked by an underlying disease of the hematopoietic system or an infectious lesion of the body.

Sometimes discomfort in the spleen is combined with pain in the liver - then the cause may be liver cirrhosis.

Pain in the spleen area does not always indicate the presence of a disease - the norm from a physiological point of view is:

• pain when walking or running quickly - caused by the accumulation and release of blood;
• pain during pregnancy is associated with pressure from the fetus on the mother’s internal organs.

Symptoms of spleen diseases

The spleen - where it is located and how this organ hurts is necessary to know, but not enough to suspect problems in its functioning.

Diseases of the spleen can be accompanied by a number of clinical signs, including:

• the appearance in the left upper abdomen of a palpable surface of an enlarged organ or a tumor-like formation on its surface - it can be soft or more elastic, smooth or lumpy, sometimes painful on palpation;
• increased temperature – often low-grade fever (up to 37.1 degrees);
• lethargy or constant fatigue;
• feeling of fullness in the stomach;
• pallor;
• manifestations of anemia;
• a sharp decrease in immunity;
• signs of poisoning - nausea, pain in muscles and joints;
• severe exhaustion;
• bloating when the abdominal cavity fills with fluid.

These symptoms are not specific and require careful diagnosis.

Separately, there are signs of spleen injury - they are often associated with other injuries and manifestations of blood loss:

• nausea and vomiting;
• thirst;
• cold sweat;
• disturbances of heart rhythm and breathing;
• decrease in pressure;
• dizziness;
• fever;
• general pallor and bruising in the spleen area;
• loss of consciousness.

The presence of even some acute symptoms should be a reason to urgently seek medical help.

First aid for sudden pain

If severe pain in an organ appears suddenly, then, regardless of whether there was an injury, you should proceed according to the following algorithm:

1. Carefully ensure that the person has a horizontal body position. In case of injury, one should strive to move the victim as little as possible.
2. If bleeding is present, apply a clean, tight bandage and do not apply a heating pad or ice to the sore spot.
3. Calm the person (in some cases, mild sedatives are acceptable) - this is intended to help restore breathing.
4. Do not take painkillers - this will interfere with the doctor’s diagnosis.

At the same time, it is necessary to call an ambulance - regardless of the presence of open wounds, this condition is life-threatening.

Diagnostics

Spleen - where it is located and how this organ hurts, as well as what symptoms may accompany the pain are described above.

If the symptoms are not acute, you should routinely consult a therapist for an initial consultation and prescribe a number of measures:

During research, consultations with a hematologist, infectious disease specialist or oncologist may be required.

Pain due to thrombosis of the splenic vein

It is customary to distinguish between primary thrombosis (blockage) of the splenic vein, when the disorder is localized precisely in this part of the venous network, and secondary, when there are prerequisites in the form of negative processes in the abdominal cavity.

Thrombosis can be caused by:

• infectious diseases - blood poisoning (sepsis), syphilis, tuberculosis, malaria;
• vascular spasms;
• chronic inflammation in the peritoneum (liver or stomach);
• injuries.

The course of the disease includes 2 stages:

• hidden (when there is an enlargement of the organ) – there is no pain or any noticeable disturbances. Under favorable circumstances, self-healing may occur;
• period of bleeding - it is distinguished by bloody vomiting, feces, bleeding from the nose and gums. Death may occur due to blood loss or decreased immunity.

The treatment method for the disease is removal of the spleen (splenectomy).

The most common type of pain is small, with a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, on the left, aggravated by movement. Less commonly, intense pain may be observed in the left hypochondrium, radiating to the scapula.

Injuries and rupture of the spleen

The organ can be injured by a fall, injury, or compression of the abdominal area. Rupture of an enlarged or excessively congested spleen can occur even with a minor impact (aggressive palpation, vomiting). In case of injury, there may be a concussion or complete destruction of organ tissue with the formation of dead cell mass.

The gap could be:

For traumatic ruptures, two main approaches to treatment are acceptable:

• radical– removal of the spleen. Used in most cases, if possible, preserving part of the organ in order to prevent hematopoietic disorders;
• organ-saving– suitable for minor tears. The most effective way to stop bleeding is with an electrocoagulator that “seals” the vessels.

The distinctive features of pain during rupture are as follows:

• localization of pain in the left hypochondrium and its intensification when pressing on the sternum;
• impact to the left shoulder blade or collarbone;
• painful urge to have a bowel movement.

Spleen abscess

In 90% of cases, an abscess develops due to infection entering the organ from other organs and systems through the bloodstream when:

• postpartum blood poisoning;
• purulent processes in the bone marrow;
• ulcerative inflammation of the heart membranes (endocarditis);
• infections (typhoid, malaria, scarlet fever);
• liver or kidney abscess;
• purulent hemorrhages.

Clinically, an organ abscess is expressed by low-grade fever, weakness and exhaustion.

Depending on the volume of purulent tissue melting, it is possible:

With an abscess, the pain is localized in the left hypochondrium or chest, on the left. Palpation reveals protrusion and tenderness of the spleen area.

Spleen pain in tuberculosis

Tuberculous organ damage is diagnosed very rarely; it can affect only the spleen or be combined with general tuberculosis (more often).

The disease can occur:

• acute– with a significant increase in temperature and signs of poisoning;
• chronically– with a temperature of up to 37, weakness, loss of appetite, organ enlargement, and blood disorders. A decrease in platelets can provoke internal bleeding.

There are two main treatment methods:

• drug therapy anti-tuberculosis drugs;
• organ removal– when tuberculosis infection is localized only in the spleen and conservative treatment is ineffective.

The disease can occur without pain, or be expressed by heaviness in the left hypochondrium and a painful, enlarged spleen.

Splenic infarction

The cause of a heart attack may be blockage of an organ's vessels by an air plug or a blood clot.

This condition often accompanies:

• inflammation of the heart membranes;
• portal hypertension;
• typhoid fever.

The disease can occur:

• hidden(small heart attacks, prone to self-healing);
• acute– with high fever, palpitations, vomiting and intestinal spasms and intense pain in the left hypochondrium.

In case of extensive heart attacks or infection with the formation of pus, removal of the spleen may be required.

Asplenia

This term refers to a complex of painful symptoms characteristic of the absence of a spleen, including:

• shortness of breath;
• heartbeat;
• circulatory and blood pressure disorders;
• reduced resistance to infections;
• increased thrombus formation.

There are:

• congenital asplenia– occurs rarely, mainly in boys, is accompanied by underdevelopment of other organs and systems, in 95% of cases is incompatible with life;
• acquired– occurs after removal of the spleen, most often in men 30–45 years old. Severe asplenia is not a necessary consequence of surgery.

Congenital defects require surgery; in the acquired form, the following are indicated:

• prevention of infections through vaccination;
• taking medications that reduce blood viscosity.

Asplenic syndrome does not cause pain in the spleen area.

Neoplasms in the spleen

Organ neoplasms are represented by cavities (cysts) filled with blood (cystic hemangiomas), lymph (lymphangiomas) or mixed contents.

Cysts can be:

• congenital;
• acquired as a result of infections, inflammations, injuries.

As cysts grow, they can displace neighboring organs or lead to atrophy of the spleen.

Large cysts are accompanied by pain in the left side of the abdomen, radiating to the shoulder, and are dangerous for complications and bleeding.

Treatment methods for hollow tumors:

• removal of an organ or part thereof;
• pumping out the contents of the cavity.

Spleen tumors

A distinctive feature of a tumor is a change in the mechanism of cell growth and division.

Among the tumors of the spleen are:

• benign– hemangioma, lymphangioma, fibroma, chondroma, osteoma;
• malignant– various sarcomas and spleen cancer. May be a consequence of metastases of tumors in other organs.

Tumors of the spleen are extremely rare; the symptoms are typical for an enlarged organ - weakness, anemia, low-grade fever. The pain syndrome can vary from discomfort to sharp pain in the left side. If there is growth or malignancy, removal of the organ is indicated.

Echinococcosis

Septic spleen

This condition is one of the signs of a general severe infection of the body (most often with staphylococcus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Sepsis (blood poisoning) can result from a sharp decrease in immune defense due to large blood loss or serious illness.

Swelling and softening of the spleen is the main sign of sepsis, but it is also characteristic of other severe infections:

• typhoid fever;
• malaria;
• infectious mononucleosis.

It is difficult to focus on pain specifically in the spleen during sepsis - general infection is often accompanied by signs of inflammation of the peritoneum - acute abdominal pain. In acute sepsis, the spleen becomes extremely vulnerable to rupture. The main treatment should be aimed at combating general inflammation.

Medicines for pain in the spleen

The spleen - where it is located and how this organ hurts - is not such a simple question, because in fact the cause of pain is most often nearby organs, nerves or blood vessels.

Prescribed medications are designed to correct the underlying disease, including:

Diseases of the spleen may require correction of blood composition using antianemic or blood thinning medications. Taking painkillers is permissible only after diagnosis.

Nutritional recommendations for pain in the spleen are aimed at stabilizing the blood composition (eliminating anemia) and minimizing the filtration load on the organ. It is advisable to eat small portions up to 5-6 times a day.

Information about the nuances of the diet is presented in the table:

Authorized Products	Products that should be limited or removed from the menu
Fish, including fatty fish	Canned fish, caviar
Lean chicken	Fatty meat and poultry, lard
Vegetable and fruit soups	Rich broths
Fermented milk products and cheeses without spices	Whole milk and butter, ice cream
Nuts	Mushrooms, eggs
Buckwheat and wheat porridge without milk, pasta	Fried foods, spicy seasonings
Lentils, beans, peas	Mayonnaise, spices, mustard, sauces, vinegar, pickles, marinades, smoked meats
Yesterday's bread	Fresh wheat bread, baked goods
Cabbage - cauliflower and white cabbage, carrots, beets, dill, parsley, tomatoes, ginger	Radish, horseradish, turnip, sorrel, rhubarb
Strawberries, blueberries, watermelon, currants, grapes and figs	Fruits and berries with high acidity
Weak tea, chicory	Caffeinated drinks and alcohol, chocolate
Freshly squeezed juices, especially apple juice.	Carbonated drinks

To normalize immunity and blood formation, it is useful to include honey, cranberries, and pomegranates in the menu. The permissibility of consuming citrus fruits and meat by-products should be checked with a doctor.

Traditional methods of treatment

These recipes are based on the use of herbs and foods. They cannot replace medications, but they can reduce the toxic load on the organ.

In complex treatment and prevention use:

Before using folk remedies, you should consult a doctor.

Indications for splenectomy

Removal of the spleen (splenectomy) is always a last resort measure, appropriate in cases where preserving the organ will do more harm to the body than good.

These conditions include:

• negative impact of the organ on the composition of the blood - hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenic purpura, impaired concentration of hemoglobin or red blood cells;
• discomfort with growing or malignant tumors or cysts;
• inhibitory effect of the spleen on the hematopoietic system in aplastic anemia;
• organ injuries with bleeding;
• large or complicated abscesses;
• enlargement of the spleen, threatening to rupture;
• organ infarction;
• autoimmune diseases – when the body’s defense system attacks healthy tissue rather than foreign tissue.

Contraindications to surgery are cardiac and pulmonary diseases, as well as the inability to achieve the necessary blood clotting.

How is splenectomy performed?

Removal of the spleen can be planned or emergency - the difference will be in the scope of preparatory examinations (tests, allergy tests). Regardless of the type of access, the operation requires general anesthesia. There are two main techniques for performing splenectomy.

For an open access operation, the algorithm is as follows:

1. Making an incision into the abdominal wall and muscles.
2. Cutting off the ligaments holding the organ, “sealing” damaged vessels.
3. Removal of the spleen.
4. Checking the organ bed for bleeding and residual absorbent materials.
5. Connection of skin and muscles with staples.
6. Suture and bandage application.

In laparoscopic surgery, access is made through several small holes in the abdominal wall.

Additionally, the following manipulations will be required:

1. Injection of carbon dioxide into the abdominal cavity to lift the skin and muscles and provide space for instruments to move.
2. Inserting a laparoscope that transmits the “picture” to the screen.
3. Inserting 2–4 cutting instruments.

Laparoscopic splenectomy provides quick rehabilitation and less trauma, but requires more experience from the surgeon.

Life without a spleen

The spleen is not one of the vital organs. After its removal, some functions come under the control of other organs, but it is not always possible to fully compensate for the absence of the spleen.

In this case:

• immune defense decreases;
• possible blood clotting disorders, blockage of liver vessels by blood clots;
• the risk of pancreatic inflammation increases;
• Ventilation problems may occur.

To improve quality of life after splenectomy, attention should be paid to:

• infection prevention – vaccination, avoiding unnecessary visits to crowded places;
• a diet that reduces the load on the liver and pancreas;
• control of blood clotting.

Prevention of pain in the spleen

Where the spleen is located and how it hurts may be of interest to many. However, it is equally useful to learn how to reduce the likelihood of such discomfort.

To do this you should:

Pain in the spleen area cannot be relieved on your own with painkillers, especially if there is general malaise or intoxication. When contacting a doctor, you should clarify where the discomfort is localized and how it is expressed.

Article format: Lozinsky Oleg

Video about the spleen

The role of the spleen in the body and is it possible to live without it:

It is rare to meet a person who comes to the doctor with a complaint that his spleen hurts.

Often people turn to doctors with complaints of pain in the left side, chest pain on the left, as well as general weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, and constant drowsiness.

These symptoms may indicate various pathologies, including diseases of the spleen. What diseases of the spleen exist in humans?

How dangerous are they? Why does the spleen hurt in men and women, what to do if the organ makes itself felt?

Compared to other human organs, the spleen is quite large. In the average person, it can normally reach 15 centimeters in length and 9 centimeters in width.

The organ is located on the left side, more precisely in the upper abdomen, behind the ribs. The spleen consists of white and red pulp, which are protected on top by a very strong membrane.

Despite the fact that a person can live without this organ, its role is difficult to overestimate.

Thus, it is in the spleen that white and red blood cells are produced, which determines its most important functions - hematopoietic, protective, immunomodulatory, homeostatic (involves maintaining a constant internal environment of the body).

Useful article? Share the link

Classmates

What are the reasons that a person has a sore spleen, or more precisely, that he experiences discomfort in his left side?

The fact is that the organ itself rarely hurts, because, as already mentioned, its surface layer is very dense. Pain in the spleen is always secondary. The exception is mechanical injuries to the organ.

So, what can cause pain in the spleen? What are the most important causes of organ pathologies in women and men?

The most important causes of discomfort in the right side:

The reasons that a person has pain in the hematopoietic organ, which is located in the left side, are also the unfavorable environmental conditions in the area where the person lives, his frequent depression, severe physical overload, or, conversely, physical inactivity, unbalanced nutrition.

Thus, the causes of pain in the left side associated with the spleen are numerous. Often these reasons are complex.

Signs of pathologies of the hematopoietic organ differ depending on the type and nature of the disease.

General symptoms of spleen diseases:

• pain in the left hypochondrium
• modification of the organ (its enlargement);
• poor health of a person;
• loss of appetite;
• decreased immunity and associated frequent infectious diseases;
• memory impairment, problems concentrating.

We will consider the symptoms (signs) of various spleen diseases in more detail below.

Injuries and diseases of the spleen

There can be quite a few answers to the question of why the spleen hurts in women and men. The most important causes of pathologies of the hematopoietic organ can be divided into two groups: external and internal.

External causes of severe pain in the left side in the area of ​​the spleen are its mechanical damage.

The fact is that, despite the fact that the spleen is located in the left side under the ribs, it is quite easy to damage it. A person can receive both open (cuts, stabs) and closed (bruises) injuries to the spleen.

If a person has a closed injury, then he will feel sharp pain in the spleen area. Also in this case, there are symptoms such as pale skin, sweating, tachycardia and low blood pressure.

If the blow was very strong, then the spleen may rupture and severe internal bleeding.

In this case, the described signs will be complemented by cyanosis of the skin in the area of ​​the damaged organ, a sharp decrease in blood pressure, and possibly painful shock.

Medical assistance and treatment in this case should follow immediately.

If a person has received an open wound, then the symptoms of damage to the hematopoietic organ are even more pronounced: external bleeding, pain shock.

What to do if one of the people nearby has a spleen injury and the symptoms described above are identified? If this happens, then, first of all, you need to call doctors.

To do this, you need to apply a bandage to the wound, as the person may die from blood loss. You should not do any other manipulations yourself. In this case, the most important thing is to get the victim to intensive care as quickly as possible.

Of the diseases of the hematopoietic organ, the most dangerous are heart attack, abscess, tuberculosis of the spleen, malignant formations and cysts in the organ itself and organs located in close proximity to it.

In the case of all these diseases, a person will experience such general symptoms as discomfort in the spleen area, constant fatigue and drowsiness, and his immune system will malfunction.

Also, in most cases, a change in the size of the organ can be observed - an increase. Depending on the specific type of disease, other symptoms appear (nausea, vomiting, fever, etc.).

If signs of pathologies of the hematopoietic organ are identified, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Diagnostics and therapy

Diagnosis of spleen diseases can only be carried out by a specialist. Diagnosis of pathologies is usually complex: examination, palpation, clinical blood test, X-ray, ultrasound and computed tomography.

Treatment is prescribed depending on the exact diagnosis, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient.

Several treatment options for the hematopoietic organ are possible: diet therapy, drug therapy, surgery (splenectomy). As a rule, treatment of patients is carried out comprehensively.

Some people prefer to treat the spleen with folk remedies. However, we note right away that treating pathologies of an important hematopoietic organ exclusively with folk remedies is at least dangerous.

Treatment with folk remedies can only be carried out as an adjunct to the main therapy prescribed by the attending physician.

If you engage in self-medication alone, you can worsen not only the situation with the spleen, but also with other organs of the gastrointestinal tract.

It should be understood that herbs used in folk remedies are not able to cure a specific disease.

Treatment with folk remedies involves a general improvement in the functioning of the hematopoietic organ, tones it up, and has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the digestive system.

That is why it is possible to be treated with folk remedies in parallel with the main therapy or at the stage of solid remission - to speed up recovery.

Traditional medicine claims that St. John's wort gives the best results in treating the hematopoietic organ.

This herb tones the organ, helps relieve inflammation, and accelerates blood circulation.

To prepare a decoction of St. John's wort, add 20 grams of dried herb to 200 milliliters of boiling water.

When the broth has cooled, strain it through cheesecloth and drink half a glass twice a day before meals.

A decoction of nettle and sage also improves the well-being of people suffering from spleen pathologies. To make a decoction, you need to mix 10 grams of each herb and pour the mixture with 2 cups of boiling water, then simmer the decoction in a water bath for 20 minutes.

After it has cooled completely, strain the product and drink a few sips before each meal.

The herbal collection of strawberry leaves, string and nettle is also good. These herbs should be finely crushed (to a powdery state) and poured with cool boiled water (a tablespoon per 1 liter).

The herbs are infused for a day, then they need to be strained and drunk 1 glass every morning.

As a rule, the course of treatment with folk remedies is 4–6 weeks.

The spleen is located in the abdominal cavity, near the pancreas. This location was the reason that for a long time the spleen was considered a digestive organ. However, it does not relate to digestion, but performs the function of immune defense.

Its close location to the pancreas creates certain difficulties in diagnosis. When experiencing pain in this area, the question always arises: what is its source, the pancreas or the spleen. Such uncertainty has given rise to the tradition of calling the spleen an illogical organ.

When does the spleen start to hurt?

The spleen saturates the body with iron.

The main function of the spleen is to cleanse the blood of dead cells and bacteria. This organ is not vital, but failures in its functioning lead to unpleasant consequences. If only because the spleen saturates the body with iron and participates in the formation of protective processes in the body.

Pain in the spleen occurs under the influence of external or internal factors. External influences are injuries, in which the nature of the pain and consequences will depend on the degree of damage. Since this organ is poorly protected and is located close to the surface, it is very easy to harm it even with a minor blow.

If there is no external influence, then the cause of the pain is that the organ has increased in size and began to put pressure on the surrounding tissues and organs. External factors that provoke the appearance of pain are blows, falls, injuries, accidents. Closed splenic injuries can be recognized by the following signs:

• pain radiates to the back, most strongly they are felt in the left shoulder blade, left collarbone;
• decreased blood pressure;
• profuse sweating;
• increased heart rate;
• individual signs of angina pectoris;
• chills.

Organ ruptures cause internal bleeding. To exclude this dangerous phenomenon, it is necessary to examine the skin on the abdomen.

If there are bruises or bruises, it means there is internal bleeding, then urgent medical help is needed.

Injuries to the spleen cause pain that is impossible to endure, so pain shock often occurs. It is important that the victim does not lose consciousness while waiting for an ambulance. To alleviate the condition, ice is placed on the stomach. Giving painkillers is strictly prohibited.

Reduced pain will smooth out the picture of what is happening and will not allow doctors to correctly determine its source, as well as the severity of the patient’s condition. Doctors must arrive as soon as possible; the lack of timely medical care often leads to death, the main cause of which is pain shock. The main internal causes of pain in the spleen are the following series of diseases:

1. tumors;
2. abscesses;
3. splenic infarctions;
4. cysts.

Pain in the spleen can occur due to inflammatory processes occurring in other organs. Such diseases are the following:

• cirrhosis;
• anthrax;
• malaria;
• typhus or typhoid fever;
• syphilis;
• sepsis;
• infectious lymphocytosis;
• infectious mononucleosis;
• hepatitis.

Signs of pain in the spleen

Spleen, location in the body: schematically

If an injury to the spleen occurs, it will make itself felt with sharp pain that has a cutting nature. If there are infectious lesions, the sensations will be similar.

Sharp cutting pains are very difficult to endure. This nature of sensations is due to the pressure of an increasing organ on the walls of the capsule that protects it, or the destruction of the capsule itself.

Thrombosis (blockage of the splenic artery) leads to a heart attack of this organ. This situation is considered quite common. The nature of pain in this condition is uncertain. Some feel constant aching pain, others experience sudden attacks. Sometimes patients report a complete absence of external manifestations and a completely normal state of health.

Abscesses manifest themselves as suppuration in the affected area of ​​a given organ. The formation of pus is not asymptomatic. Patients feel severe discomfort.

The reason for pain with tumors is similar: a growing tumor puts pressure on the stomach and intestines, which is accompanied by unpleasant sensations. If the tumor is small in size, then there may be no pain or discomfort.

To accurately establish the cause that provoked the pain syndrome, it is necessary to be examined. Only after the exact causes have been established, treatment begins. You cannot rely only on your own thoughts. Each disease that causes pain requires a specific approach to treatment.

What kind of organ is this? And is it needed at all? For more information about the spleen, watch the video:

Main directions of treatment

An ultrasound of the spleen is the best way to find out the cause of pain.

Only an accurate diagnosis will help cope with the disease. It is advisable to find an experienced doctor who specializes in this area.

To identify the cause of the pain, you need to do an ultrasound and CT scan. These studies show external changes in organs and help identify internal pathologies.

If a splenic infarction is diagnosed, pain medications will be prescribed. A reduction in physical activity is required, maximum rest is desirable. An abscess requires surgery. Suppuration can begin in the area of ​​a heart attack, hematoma, or may be a consequence of an infectious lesion.

To be sure to overcome the pathology, splenectomy (removal of an organ) is performed. For solitary ulcers, drainage is needed. Pus is removed using percutaneous puncture under ultrasound guidance. If the pus is not removed in time, it can break into the abdominal cavity and lead to purulent peritonitis.

Tumors and cysts are also indications for removal of the spleen. Surgery performed at an early stage will help normalize the condition. If the malignant neoplasm is in an advanced stage, the tumor has grown and metastasized, then the operation will be palliative. It will simply help prolong the patient’s life, but will not lead to recovery.

In order not to encounter negative consequences, you need to seek help from doctors in a timely manner. Treatment started at an early stage is the path to full recovery. An indifferent attitude towards your health and ignoring minor pain leads to a deterioration of the condition, which will then be very difficult to correct.

It happens that symptoms of the disease appear, which are fleeting and are soon forgotten. But this calm is only temporary, because sharp and sudden pains, as a rule, are signs of a complex disease. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to any ailments, and if necessary, it is better to visit a doctor. For example, when the spleen hurts (symptoms can be expressed by sharp and aching pain), it is better not to put off the problem for a long time, but to consult a specialist.

Important organ

The spleen performs an important function in the general system of the human body. This organ clears the blood of spent red blood cells, destroying them and sending new blood components to the bone marrow to create new cells. When the spleen hurts, symptoms can be caused by the following reasons:

When the spleen hurts, the symptoms may resemble intestinal, stomach and liver disorders. Therefore, it is better to undergo an examination by a doctor to establish the correct diagnosis.

Experts recommend surgical intervention for tumors and other complex diseases of the spleen. Removing it, as many believe, does not lead to any special changes in the functioning of the human body. However, according to statistics, people who lack a spleen have a reduced life expectancy, increased susceptibility to viral and infectious diseases, and so on.

There are also known facts of complete healing of this organ using alternative means. There are treatment methods using natural ingredients, such as various herbs, propolis and royal jelly. The latter option is recommended to be used daily in the morning on an empty stomach, 1 g (the product is placed under the tongue).

Folk recipes

If the spleen hurts (the symptoms of this ailment were discussed earlier), you can use the following methods:

1. Prepare a decoction of equal portions of dried herbs - calendula and yarrow. To do this, pour the mixture (20 g) with boiled water (0.5 l). Leave for about 40 minutes. Take half a glass in the morning and evening.
2. A decoction of crushed chicory roots (20 g) and one glass of boiling water. Leave for about half an hour, drink one spoon 3 times a day.
3. Pour hop cones (10 g) with hot water (1 glass). Let stand for about 30 minutes, consume as in the previous recipe.
4. Make juice from radishes, beets and carrots. To do this, vegetables need to be chopped on a grater or using another device. Pour the juice into dark glass bottles and seal loosely. Warm the containers with the drink in a slightly heated oven for about 3 hours. Use the product one spoon per day three times for 3 months.

If the spleen hurts (symptoms can be both obvious and erased), it is recommended to immediately consult a doctor. Early diagnosis will help cope with serious illnesses.

The spleen is a very important human organ. That is why great attention is paid to all symptoms that may indicate the development of problems with this organ.

Causes of pain in the spleen

Soreness is one of the symptoms of spleen diseases

There are quite a few diseases associated with the spleen. And that is why there are also many reasons for the occurrence of such pain. But the main ones include:

It is not always possible for a person, as well as a doctor, to accurately name the true cause of the development of spleen disease, since many additional factors are added to the main factor, which makes accurate diagnosis difficult.

Symptoms of spleen diseases

There are many diseases of the spleen, each of which has its own individual symptoms. But despite this, doctors identify several similar symptoms that directly indicate problems with this organ. These symptoms include:

1. Increase in organ size
2. Painful sensations in the place where it is located. As for pain, it can be either moderate or quite severe. It all depends on how badly the organ is damaged
3. Increased body temperature
4. Increased fatigue
5. Reduced immunity

If you experience even mild pain in the spleen area, you should immediately consult a specialist, since such a symptom may indicate the onset of the development of a serious disease, which is easier to treat at the initial stage.

Enlarged spleen

Normal and enlarged spleen

One of the most common diseases that affects most people is an enlarged spleen. There are several reasons why an organ may become enlarged:

• Impact of toxins on the human body
• Severe infectious disease that was treated with antibiotics
• Stagnation of blood, which leads to its accumulation
• Blood diseases

There are several most important symptoms that directly indicate that the spleen is enlarged:

1. Reduced level of hemoglobin in the blood. Unfortunately, only during testing can you find out whether hemoglobin is increased or decreased. Most adults rarely undergo medical examination, and therefore one of the most obvious symptoms is often missed
2. Frequent illnesses. This includes frequent diseases that are caused by infections and bacteria. This suggests that a person’s immunity is reduced and the body is unable to resist
3. Ulcers that primarily appear on the feet, mouth, and sometimes hands
4. Rapid pulse
5. The appearance of bruises even when the impact on the skin is minimal, that is, with moderate compression, etc.
6. Bleeding that becomes intermittent
7. Increased body temperature
8. Painful sensations on the left, mainly the pain radiates to the back, as well as to the arm
9. A constant feeling of fullness in the stomach, which appears even if the food intake was insignificant

When you contact a doctor, you will be examined, during which he will be able to palpate the spleen. In a normal state, not enlarged, it can be felt, but not so clearly.

The disease can be diagnosed using tests, as well as after an MRI.

Splenic infarction

Palpation of the spleen

Splenic infarction is a very dangerous disease that can occur without any obvious symptoms. Splenic infarction can occur suddenly, but in most cases it is preceded by severe illnesses that impair the functioning of many organs. That is why a large load falls on the spleen, and sometimes the organ simply cannot cope with it. The main symptoms of splenic infarction include:

• Pain in the upper left abdomen. Usually it appears suddenly, and the person cannot even move. But since each person has a different pain threshold, some patients simply report severe pain
• Fever
• Chills
• Nausea and sometimes vomiting, which appear due to severe pain
• Painful sensations in the chest that can radiate to the left shoulder
• Breathing problems. When inhaling, a person feels severe pain, and because of this he cannot breathe normally.
• Abdominal muscles are very tense

Sometimes a splenic infarction can be completely asymptomatic. This suggests that the damage is not significant and surgery is not required.

Spleen abscess

One of the most serious diseases of the digestive system is spleen abscess. It is accompanied by very obvious symptoms, when they appear, there is no need to delay contacting a doctor, since the patient requires urgent medical attention. The main symptoms of an abscess include:

• Pain under the ribs on the left side of the abdomen. Moreover, the pain will be severe, and often difficult to endure.
• Increased body temperature, which can reach critical values
• Fever
• Enlarged spleen
• Problems with appetite, or rather its complete absence
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constant dizziness

The most basic symptom of a spleen abscess is severe pain, when it appears, you should immediately call an ambulance.

Inflammation of the spleen

Inflamed spleen

Inflammation of the spleen rarely occurs as a disease on its own; it is usually accompanied by other inflammatory processes associated with the abdominal organs. That is why the symptoms of inflammation of the spleen are quite vague. These include:

1. Abdominal pain, of an acute nature. There is no localization of pain as such, which is why it is difficult to immediately determine what the true cause is
2. Nausea and often vomiting
3. Increased body temperature. It increases slightly, usually up to 37.5 degrees, but if the inflammation is severe, it can increase to critical values
4. Enlarged spleen, which is detected during external examination, upon palpation of the abdomen
5. Chills and fever, if there is a purulent abscess
6. Rapid pulse

Due to the fact that there are many accompanying symptoms, it is difficult for doctors to immediately diagnose “inflammation of the spleen,” since it is most often accompanied by inflammation of other organs.

Cysts

Cysts often form in the spleen. There are many reasons for their appearance. Most often, cysts occur in women due to the fact that hormonal levels are constantly changing, which can lead to their formation. The main symptoms of cysts include:

1. Frequent diarrhea or constipation
2. Feeling of heaviness in the left hypochondrium
3. Nausea that occurs after eating
4. Allergic reaction to foods that you have never had before
5. Enlarged spleen, which is detected by palpation

Symptoms of spleen disease are a very broad concept, since there are many diseases, each of which has its own individual manifestations. But we must remember that the main symptom is pain in the left hypochondrium. If such pain occurs, you should immediately consult a doctor to find out the true cause and take all necessary measures to eliminate it in a timely manner.

The video will tell you what the spleen organ is and what role it plays in the human body:

The appearance of pain and heaviness in the left side often suggests problems with the stomach. In fact, the cause may not be in the stomach, but in the spleen. If the spleen hurts, the symptoms can be very vague, and often even experienced doctors make mistakes in the diagnosis.

Features of the structure of the organ

Not every person can immediately indicate where the spleen is located, because this organ is relatively rarely disturbed. This is explained by the peculiarities of its structure.

The spleen is located on the left side of the abdominal cavity behind the ribs so that it is in contact with the kidney, pancreas and stomach. This organ has been studied much less well than others, but has important functions: filtering the blood, purifying it from pathogenic bacteria and viruses, regulating blood composition, producing antibodies, eliminating damaged red and white blood cells.

It has been found that people who have had their spleen removed are more susceptible to infections. It is known that after its removal, the processes that previously took place in the spleen continue to occur. Perhaps the functions of this body are taken over by others. Although it is possible to live without a spleen, the quality of life is noticeably impaired. Therefore, it is necessary to understand in time why the spleen hurts, undergo an examination and not only cure the organ itself, but also eliminate the causes of the disease.

The easiest way to diagnose mechanical damage to the spleen or inflammation is at the acute stage. In other cases, it is not easy to diagnose disorders.

There are no pain endings on the internal tissues of the organ, so pain in the spleen can only appear when its size increases, when the membrane stretches and begins to put pressure on nearby organs. For this reason, disorders of the spleen are often confused with symptoms of diseases of the organs located next to it. Symptoms can be very vague:

• the appearance of ulcers;
• weakness;
• loss of appetite;
• skin itching;
• allergic rash;
• drowsiness.

ARVE Error:

The appearance of pain in the spleen may not be associated with a disorder of this organ. Perhaps the pain will only create slight discomfort in the hypochondrium on the left side or heaviness. Sometimes the pain radiates under the left shoulder blade, into the chest, into the shoulder, which can be associated with neuralgic diseases or thoracic osteochondrosis.

Therefore, in order to find out why the spleen hurts, you first need to make sure that the cause of the disease lies in this organ. If the organ is already significantly enlarged, diagnosis is carried out by palpation. In other cases, the patient is prescribed an abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. If the organ is greatly enlarged, a puncture is first performed and only then appropriate treatment is prescribed.

Why does pain occur?

The study allows us to find out exactly why the spleen began to hurt and prescribe adequate treatment. If the spleen hurts, then the main causes of pain are:

• mechanical injuries;
• complication after infectious diseases;
• splenic infarction;
• development of tumors and cysts.

It is very easy to injure the spleen, since it does not have reliable protection, only a thin layer of peritoneum. A strong blow to the area where the organ is located can lead to bruise, rupture or cracks. Symptoms may appear all at once, or only some of them. It depends, first of all, on the force of the blow. The main symptoms of mechanical damage to the spleen are as follows:

• the appearance of a bruise at the site of the impact (left side of the abdomen);
• low blood pressure;
• dizziness;
• nausea and uncontrollable vomiting;
• increased heart rate;
• severe pain throughout the left side, radiating to the collarbone and back, sometimes causing loss of consciousness from shock.

In order to timely determine damage to the spleen after an accident, injury or blow, the victim must undergo radiography. It is not recommended to give painkillers to the victim until the ambulance arrives. To relieve pain, you can only put ice on the damaged area. Before the doctor arrives, loss of consciousness should not be allowed.

Purulent inflammation

Purulent inflammation (abscess) of the spleen occurs due to similar processes in other organs, bacteremia, and as a complication after mechanical injury. An abscess causes the following symptoms:

• weakness;
• increase in temperature;
• chills.

In later stages of the disease, tachycardia and shortness of breath are observed against a background of dull but severe pain radiating to the shoulder or chest. The area of ​​skin over the damaged organ has an increased temperature compared to other areas. With a purulent abscess, the spleen increases significantly in size and is easily palpable, but it is not recommended to carry out palpation on your own: there is a great danger of careless actions causing tissue rupture and the release of pus.

Complications on the spleen after various diseases are accompanied by the appearance of acute, sharp pain under the ribs on the left, and nausea. It becomes difficult to lie on your left side. Untreated infections reduce immunity and can lead to disruptions in the lymphatic system.

Diagnostics

If pain in the spleen is observed, ultrasound examination can determine the exact cause in most cases. Normally, the organ cannot be felt - it is located behind the ribs, too far. But when disturbances occur, its size increases significantly and the development of the disease can be diagnosed by palpation.

Ultrasound examination is prescribed for patients who have cirrhosis, since over time the disease can progress and spread to the spleen. Regular ultrasound is prescribed when diagnosing cysts and tumors, after injuries, broken ribs and blows to the left side of the abdomen. Even minor damage to this organ can cause internal bleeding. In this case, the victim undergoes surgery to remove the organ. The positive outcome of such an intervention will largely depend on how quickly the patient is admitted to the hospital after the injury.

In addition to ultrasound, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging is highly likely to diagnose spleen disease. Such an examination may be prescribed if pathological changes in the spleen are suspected.

If an ultrasound scan of the spleen is prescribed, it is necessary to prepare for the examination in advance. The rules are quite simple. The day before the ultrasound, foods that can cause bloating are excluded from the diet. These products include wheat bread, beans, and cabbage. It is recommended to take medications that reduce gas formation.

During an ultrasound, the patient lies on his side and places one hand behind his head - this allows you to increase the distance between the ribs and better “see” the spleen. When analyzing the results, pay attention to the size of the organ. In an adult, the normal size of the spleen is:

• length – 12 cm;
• thickness – 5 cm;
• width – 8 cm.

Depending on the characteristics of the body, these indicators may vary slightly, within 1 cm. In addition to the size of the organ, pay attention to the structure of the spleen and blood vessels: arteries (normal diameter is up to 2 mm) and veins (up to 5 – 8 mm).

Ultrasound diagnosis of the disease gives accurate results and allows you to identify all pathological processes at the initial stage. Although diseases of the spleen are much less common than diseases of other organs, it is important to get checked regularly. This is especially true for women over 35 years of age, since it is they who develop spleen diseases 3 to 5 times more often than men.

Therapeutic measures

If your spleen hurts, you should not resort to self-medication and delay in seeing a doctor - this can lead to a worsening of the situation, the development of tuberculosis and, as a result, death.

Treatment of the disease largely depends on the causes of its occurrence. If the dysfunction of the organ is caused by a splenic infarction, the patient is advised to slow down the pace of life for a while and is prescribed an anesthetic.

In case of purulent inflammation or abscess, they usually resort to complete or partial removal of the organ by splenectomy. The operation takes place under general anesthesia, i.e. the patient is unconscious during this period.

Currently, laparoscopy is often performed - an operation using a precision instrument, a laparoscope. It is inserted through a small incision in the abdominal area, and the rest of the instruments are inserted through several other incisions.

After removing the spleen in this way, the patient recovers much faster and easier than with a traditional open splenectomy. This operation involves removing the organ through a large incision in the abdomen. An open splenectomy allows lymph nodes to be removed or examined for cancer. After the organ is removed, a suture is applied. Full recovery may take up to 6 weeks.

If ulcers or cysts occur, drainage or puncture of the spleen is performed. New growths of the organ, both malignant and benign, can also be eliminated by splenectomy. But this method only allows you to effectively cope with diseases at an early stage. Surgery for severe diseases will be palliative, that is, non-radical.

Prevention

The best treatment for any disease is to prevent it from occurring. Accordingly, the best way to eliminate problems with the spleen is, if possible, to prevent the reasons for their development.

The main measures that are necessary to prevent any diseases are a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition.

Since the spleen is involved in metabolic processes, it is best to cleanse the blood. For this, you can use various drugs, but you need to select them carefully, since they contain various chemicals, which means they have not only indications for use, but also contraindications.

To cleanse the blood, you can use traditional methods, but only as an additional measure, and not as a full-fledged treatment. Before using them, it is also recommended to consult with your doctor, since even natural medicines can cause allergies or other negative consequences.

Propolis is considered an effective remedy for preventing leukemia and improving immunity. It contains bioactive substances and antibiotics. Propolis kills germs and relieves pain. To treat leukemia, it is recommended to drink propolis tincture 4 times daily for a month. If infection develops, it is recommended to drink propolis more often in the first days, every 2 hours.

St. John's wort has a beneficial effect on the spleen. It has an antimicrobial effect, relieves spasm of blood vessels and strengthens them, and prevents the formation of stones in the gall bladder. St. John's wort is taken as an infusion: 10 g per 200 ml of water. Every day you need to drink 1/4 glass before meals.

In addition to St. John's wort, other medicinal herbs will be useful in treating the spleen: strawberries, sage, yarrow, nettle, string, calendula.

ARVE Error: id and provider shortcodes attributes are mandatory for old shortcodes. It is recommended to switch to new shortcodes that need only url

Chicory helps reduce the size of the spleen. It can be drunk as tea or prepared as an infusion (20 g per glass of boiling water). The infusion is taken before meals, 2-3 spoons.

Treatment with folk remedies can be no less effective than medication, and more gentle than surgery. But in any case, treatment must be timely, appropriate to the disease, and strictly under the supervision of the attending physician.

The spleen and pancreas are in close proximity to each other, contacting in the left hypochondrium. A developing symptom of pain localized in the left half of the abdomen under the ribs sometimes has to be differentiated, specifying which specific organ is involved in the pathological process and causes discomfort.

The spleen is an unpaired organ. She is susceptible to injury and change. This often causes discomfort in the stomach. It is possible to determine the source of concern and find out what may be hurting - the pancreas or spleen - only after an examination.

Where is the spleen located and what functions does it perform?

The spleen is an important organ of the immune system. It controls hematopoiesis and takes part in metabolic processes. It is located approximately 2 cm to the left of the stomach, bordering the tail of the pancreas, transverse colon, and left kidney.

Despite its location in the abdominal cavity, the spleen is not involved in the digestive processes. This organ, responsible for immunity and hematopoiesis, performs the following functions:

1. Synthesis of immunoglobulins - immune defense cells that destroy pathogens that enter the body. These are proteins involved in immune defense.
2. Formation of lymphocytes and monocytes.
3. The spleen is a cemetery of red blood cells: from the iron of destroyed red blood cells, hemoglobin is formed, which is involved in the formation of new red blood cells, and bilirubin, which later becomes part of bile.
4. The production of blood cells in the prenatal period is to produce platelets. Closer to birth, this function is taken over by the bone marrow. If an adult's bone marrow stops producing platelets due to some disease, this process occurs again in the spleen.
5. The spleen is a blood depot: if the outflow is disrupted, it can accommodate a large amount of blood, significantly increasing in size. When the process normalizes, it releases blood into the vascular bed, again taking on normal sizes.

How to understand that the spleen hurts?

The spleen, like the liver, has no pain receptors. Therefore, it does not hurt, but increases significantly in size with pathology or stress and can put pressure on surrounding organs. It rarely manifests itself, only in far advanced cases, when its changes and sizes have reached large values.

During the development of the disease, which can last several months, the pathology of the spleen can only be detected during a functional study. The same methods can be used to differentiate the source of pain - the pancreas or the spleen.

Causes of pain

The spleen has no pain receptors, so the organ itself does not hurt. But the location in close proximity to other organs (stomach, pancreas, intestines, left kidney and adrenal gland) leads to tissue swelling. Splenomegaly due to severe illness (liver cirrhosis, blood diseases, viral infections) causes pain due to stretching of the capsule and pressure on neighboring organs.

Most often, the spleen is damaged due to injury. This usually happens when there is a sharp impact or fall. Damage can be various, including organ rupture. Often, injuries cause damage to the splenic artery: severe bleeding occurs with blood entering the parenchyma of the organ, and then into the abdominal cavity. In such cases, the spleen is removed, but the person lives fully without this organ, and no major life-threatening changes in any functions occur.

In addition to injury, there are other causes of pain:

• severe infections leading to systemic disorders (tuberculosis, viral hepatitis);
• heart attack due to sudden arterial thrombosis;
• abscess as a result of a severe bacterial infection;
• large cysts developing in the parenchyma;
• neoplasms.

Symptoms and nature of pain

The nature of the pain, its intensity and localization depend on the pathological process and its prevalence:

1. Trauma (often a bruise, rupture of organ tissue) causes sharp acute pain radiating to the back and under the shoulder blade. Accompanied by pronounced clinical manifestations: cold sweat, thirst, vomiting, a sharp drop in blood pressure.
2. The abscess is manifested by intense pain in the left hypochondrium, which radiates to the left shoulder, high hyperthermia, and chills.
3. Pulmonary tuberculosis is accompanied by severe aching pain in the left hypochondrium due to a significant enlargement of the spleen, changes appear in the blood.
4. Splenic infarction leads to intense pain in the left hypochondrium. It radiates to the lower back and intensifies with breathing.
5. A cyst or inflammatory process of the spleen tissue (splenitis) is manifested by aching chronic pain in the hypochondrium and back, accompanied by a deterioration in the general condition: general weakness, lack of appetite, and constant nausea are troubling. If a low-grade fever is noted in this condition, this may indicate a neoplasm - benign or malignant.
6. Pain in the spleen area occurs during an acute viral illness. It is not associated with the pathology of the organ itself and quickly passes along with the infection.
7. Congenital pathology with an unbalanced diet also leads to pain. Pathological manifestations are revealed in the form of displacement of ligaments and their defects.

Providing first aid in case of pain

If sudden pain in the spleen occurs, do the following:

• call an emergency team;
• It is convenient to place the patient on his back so that he becomes as relaxed as possible;
• do not give any medications (you cannot give analgesics and antispasmodics, so as not to blur the clinical picture);
• do not apply compresses (neither hot nor cold) - this can lead to a deterioration in your health.

Pathologies arising in the spleen

In addition to injuries, cysts are in first place among the causes of pain of various types. Most often, cysts form in women. This is a long process that lasts for years. A woman may not suspect that she has a liquid formation until its size becomes more than 6-7 cm, or for some reason the cyst is filled with pus. Then the general condition will begin to deteriorate, malaise, weakness, unmotivated fatigue, dull unexpressed pain in the left hypochondrium and back will appear.

Appetite may decrease significantly, and constant nausea appears. Sometimes pain manifests itself in the stomach, intestines, and kidneys. If purulent contents appear in the cyst, this leads to a temperature that lasts for months, remains at low-grade levels and exhausts the body.

When a cyst ruptures and pus enters the abdominal cavity, dangerous complications arise, including peritonitis.

For small-sized liquid formations, it is necessary to monitor the dynamics of development by performing ultrasound several times a year. If the size is large, the cyst is removed surgically in a specialized department. The operation is complex, the patient has to be observed by a doctor for a long time.

Splenic infarction is in second place among the pathologies leading to the development of pain. Develops as a result of acute thrombosis of the splenic artery after infections or operations. It occurs individually: more often – with a sharp pain symptom in the abdomen and back. But some do not experience any sensations - a painless form develops.

An abscess occurs in the parenchyma of the spleen after severe bacterial infections. The cause may be a minor injury that is not diagnosed in a timely manner. It is severe, with high fever, chills, and paroxysmal throbbing pain in the abdomen and back.

Tuberculosis of the spleen occurs with pain in the left hypochondrium and back, but recently it has been very rare. It is also extremely rarely diagnosed, since it develops over a long period of time and cannot be detected in the early stages.

Neoplasms in the spleen rarely develop. If this happens, then typical symptoms appear: abdominal pain, nausea, poor appetite, low-grade fever, general malaise. Benign formations in the spleen include:

• fibroma;
• hemangioma;
• lymphangioma

The list of malignant neoplasms is more extensive, but they are very rare:

• angio-, lympho-, fibro-, reticulosarcoma;
• hemangioendothelioma.

For the spleen, it is more typical that it is damaged by metastases from neighboring organs, rather than the development of a tumor. If the neoplasm has begun to develop, then in the initial stages it is very difficult to suspect it without examination. Only with significant growth, when significant irreversible changes have occurred, do the first signs of pathology appear:

• heaviness and discomfort in the left hypochondrium;
• severe weakness;
• increased sweating;
• weight loss;
• ascites is fluid in the abdominal cavity.

Damage to the spleen also accompanies other pathological syndromes:

• hepatitis of various etiologies;
• hemolytic anemia;
• leukemia;
• hepatolienal syndrome;
• splenic flexure syndrome of the colon (accumulation of gases in the flexure of the intestine).

Diagnosis of diseases

Several methods are used to diagnose spleen pathology. Since it is located in the abdominal cavity, the enlarged organ can be palpated during an objective examination. This usually occurs with cirrhosis of various etiologies (alcoholic, viral), when the spleen reaches a large size and its edge extends from the hypochondrium. Normally this is impossible to do.

If there is no splenomegaly, it will not be possible to determine the spleen during examination, even if there is pathology in it. The most convenient method to check for certain changes in organ tissue is ultrasound. Using sonography, the size of the organ, its shape, homogeneity of structure, pathological formations and inclusions are determined. Ultrasound is a safe method, therefore, first of all, a patient with suspected changes in the spleen is examined using ultrasound. This technique can also be used to examine a child.

The injury is accompanied by bleeding, changes can be detected by ultrasound or CT - tomographic examination. CT is a highly accurate method that allows you to identify in detail any changes in the organ; it is performed if there are any contraindications to MRI - magnetic resonance imaging.

With any injury, the spleen and adjacent organs, including the pancreas, must be immediately examined, as undetected bleeding can be fatal.

Laboratory methods used:

• general blood test;
• determination of a blood test to determine the persistence of red blood cells;
• diagnostic test with adrenaline (Frey's test): with a healthy spleen, its size is reduced by half, and with pathology, the spleen increases significantly; this is necessary to distinguish simple organ enlargement from tumor damage.

Treatment methods

Therapy depends on the identified pathology. If an injury occurs with a rupture of the spleen, it is removed surgically. Surgical methods are also used for identified purulent cysts, abscesses, neoplasms, and bleeding.

If the spleen tissue is not damaged, symptomatic treatment is prescribed. It includes:

• painkillers;
• anti-inflammatory therapy;
• drugs to improve the functioning of the digestive system;
• antipyretics;
• antibiotics;
• drugs that improve blood circulation.

The therapy that is prescribed is complex and individual, depending on the identified disease, its manifestations, changes in sonography and laboratory tests, as well as clinical symptoms. During the treatment period, complete rest is required: the patient is on bed rest. Any physical activity is excluded. Self-medication is strictly prohibited due to severe complications.

For hemolytic diseases, splenectomy (removal of the spleen) is performed and subsequently drug treatment. When gases accumulate in the flexure of the colon, antifoam agents, enzyme preparations (if there is pancreatitis), and antispasmodics are prescribed.

For small abscesses identified, antibiotic therapy is prescribed.

How to determine whether the pancreas or spleen hurts

To find out which organ is causing the pain - the spleen or the pancreas, it is necessary to conduct a thorough comprehensive examination to check what functions of these organs are lost. The spleen, due to the absence of pain receptors in it, does not hurt. A painful symptom develops only if its size significantly exceeds the norm. This occurs with swelling or growth of metastases, benign or malignant tumors, and the appearance of abscesses.

Pain in the pancreas differs in localization: it can occur in the right hypochondrium, or be. Moreover, the painful symptom is accompanied by vomiting, which does not bring relief, pancreatic diarrhea, flatulence, etc. Any error in diet and even a few sips of alcohol can provoke an attack of pancreatic pain.

Diet and prevention of spleen diseases

An integral part of complex treatment is dietary nutrition. It is necessary to follow certain nutritional rules:

• take food in small portions, but often;
• exclude very hot or cold foods and drinks;
• do not overeat;
• do not eat fatty, fried, spicy, salty foods, limit sweets;
• exclude difficult-to-digest foods.

It is important to avoid alcohol during treatment. It is also recommended to reduce psycho-emotional stress and stress, since they negatively affect a person’s condition during the period of therapy.

If there is a need for surgical treatment and the patient undergoes a splenectomy, the body will continue to function normally. Colds may become more frequent due to the fact that due to the absence of the spleen - the main immune organ - immunoglobulins will no longer be produced.

And although if the spleen is removed, life will continue without catastrophic losses, you need to be more careful about your health. It is recommended to avoid dangerous situations that can lead to injury, follow a diet and give up bad habits, so as not to aggravate pancreatitis or gastritis and not suffer from painful discomfort not only in the pancreas, but also in the spleen.

References

1. Maksimov, V. A. Clinical symptoms of acute and chronic pancreatitis. Handbook of a practicing physician 2010 No. 3 pp. 26–28.
2. Poltyrev S.S., Kurtsin I.T. Physiology of digestion. M. Higher school. 1980
3. Gastroenterology and hepatology: diagnosis and treatment. A guide for doctors, ed. A. V. Kalinina, A. I. Khazanova. M. Miklos, 2007
4. Khrapam V.V., Valetsky V.L., Balaban O.V., Informativeness of methods for early laboratory diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2006.
5. Gabunia R.I., Kolesnikova E.K. Computed tomography in clinical diagnostics. - M. Medicine, 1995
6. Todua F.I., Fedorov V.D., Kuzin M.I. Computed tomography of the abdominal organs. M. Medicine, 1991
7. Trofimova E.Yu. Diagnostic punctures under ultrasound control 2001. Crimean Therapeutic Journal No. 2 pp. 109–115.

Often, patients do not even suspect that their spleen hurts until they are examined by a doctor and receive a diagnosis. The fact is that there are no pain receptors in this organ itself, and when any problems and abnormalities arise: the accompanying sensations are more reminiscent of problems with the stomach or other organs, but not with the spleen as such.

Sections of the article

The spleen performs a number of important functions in the body, such as establishing a balance of platelets and red blood cells in the blood, as well as filtering and purifying it from toxins, bacteria, and infections. Pain in the spleen is often preceded by other characteristic symptoms, on the basis of which the doctor makes a diagnosis for patients. We will tell you further about the reasons why the spleen may hurt and what to do if you encounter such a problem.

1. Splenic infarction

One of the common pathologies that causes pain in the spleen and other unpleasant symptoms is an infarction of this organ.

We are more accustomed to attributing a heart attack exclusively to heart diseases, but a similar process can affect other internal organs of our body, in particular the spleen. A splenic infarction occurs when an artery is blocked by a blood clot, which leads to impaired circulation in part of the organ or even in the entire spleen.

Since the spleen is not a vital organ, a heart attack in it does not lead to any life-threatening consequences, but still requires medical intervention.

Features of symptoms

With a splenic infarction, patients experience the following symptoms: pain in the spleen, radiating to the back. Such pain may intensify when inhaling. However, it is important to know that microinfarctions of the spleen may not cause noticeable pain and may go unnoticed. Therefore, doctors recommend regular preventive examinations and tests.

Treatment methods

For splenic infarction, depending on the degree of damage to the organ, various treatment methods can be used. In relatively mild cases, when the symptoms are not pronounced, drug treatment can be used - special drugs aimed at neutralizing and resolving blood clots.

If the organ is severely damaged due to a heart attack, surgical methods can be used - removing part or all of the spleen. It is noteworthy that when the spleen is completely removed, after some time the patient’s body restores the normal performance of the functions that this organ previously assumed. Doctors do not have a clear answer as to how this happens. They come to the conclusion that the functions of the spleen, in its virtual absence, begin to be performed by other organs.

2. Abscesses

Another cause of pain in the spleen is abscesses, or purulent inflammation of the spleen tissue. They can occur for many reasons, such as injury or infarction of the spleen, as well as bacteria and infections. With an abscess, pus forms on the surface and in the tissues of the organ, which is accompanied not only by pain, but also by other characteristic symptoms.

Features of symptoms

With abscesses, severe pain is observed on the left side of the body, localized in the hypochondrium and radiating to the shoulder. In addition, patients experience fever, fever, and in most cases there is a severe enlargement of the spleen.

Treatment methods

Treatment of pain in the spleen caused by abscesses is prescribed by a doctor and depends on the degree of damage to the spleen tissue. This can be either drug therapy, which consists of taking anti-inflammatory drugs, or surgical methods, for example, removing the damaged part of the spleen.

In any case, if the corresponding symptoms occur, you should urgently consult a doctor, since the process of suppuration of an internal organ can lead to complications and even be deadly.

3. Tuberculosis

Another possible cause of pain in the spleen is the entry of the dangerous bacterium Koch bacillus into the organ, which leads to the development of tuberculosis. Bacteria enter the spleen from other organs - most often from the kidneys or lungs. Tuberculosis exclusively of the spleen, not affecting other internal organs, is very rare.

In the initial stages, the disease is asymptomatic; patients note only a slight increase in body temperature that persists for a long time. As the disease progresses, the spleen enlarges and becomes very painful.

Features of symptoms

Severe pain in the spleen, increased body temperature, and other symptoms characteristic of tuberculosis.

Treatment methods

If we talk about the treatment of spleen diseases in general, it often comes down to removing part of the organ or the entire spleen, since this organ is not vital. In the case of tuberculosis, the patient is placed in an infectious diseases hospital and cured of bacterial infection with Koch's bacillus.

Moreover, if, due to the advanced stage of the disease, the spleen tissue is severely damaged, or if the organ is completely destroyed, it can also be removed.

4. Cysts

Another pathology that can cause severe pain in the spleen is cysts.

• Nihehinococcus.
• Alveococcus.
• Cysticercom.

Features of symptoms

Treatment methods

In both cases, the cysts can be removed surgically, often along with part of the spleen itself.

5. Tumors

Also possible causes of pain in the spleen can be tumors - harmless benign ones, as well as oncological and malignant ones. The former are quite rare; among the latter, sarcomas or lymphomas are most often present.

Features of symptoms

Like most other cancers, the first, initial stages are practically asymptomatic. Patients may experience chronic fatigue and also notice a decrease in immunity. At more complex stages, pain occurs that is localized in the spleen area and radiates to the back. The pain is usually aching in nature and is constantly present.

Treatment methods

As with other types of cancer, you need to be on the lookout for cancerous tumors in the spleen. If you have negative heredity, you should undergo an annual preventive examination and tests; in addition, it is recommended to be very attentive to your health and monitor any changes, even minor ones.

If the diagnosis reveals tumors in the spleen, the first thing that needs to be done is a biopsy to determine whether the tumor is malignant.

If the test is positive, you will need to consult an oncologist. If a cancerous tumor occurs in the spleen, the affected organ is removed - this causes less harm to the body compared to chemotherapy. However, in advanced cases, the latter is also carried out. The main task is to prevent metastases from damaging neighboring internal organs and further development of the disease.

6. Damage and injury

Another reason why pain began in the spleen could be injury. Most often, during impacts, falls or accidents, bruises or even ruptures of the spleen occur, which leads to not only pain, but often other complications. Therefore, after such incidents, it is important not to ignore your condition, but to consult a doctor and undergo an examination - even if it seems to you that nothing serious has happened to you.

Features of symptoms

The following signs may indicate an injury, bruise, or rupture of the spleen: pain in the spleen, both strong and weak, aching or acute, depending on the degree of injury. Other symptoms may also occur, such as increased body temperature, decreased blood pressure, pale skin, nausea, extreme thirst, and cold sweat.

Treatment methods

If such symptoms occur, you should consult a doctor or call an ambulance. You should not hesitate, as damage or rupture of the spleen can lead to internal bleeding into the abdominal cavity. This complication is extremely dangerous for the patient’s life.

Which doctor should I contact?

Now let's talk about what to do if your spleen hurts. If such symptoms occur, and especially if they persist for a long time, you should contact your local physician or any other general practitioner.

Already a doctor, after conducting an examination and studying the test results, will be able to redirect you to another specialist who will help solve your problem. For example, if a therapist suspects the presence of a tumor, he will redirect you to an oncologist; if there is a bacterial infection or infection, he will refer you to an infectious disease specialist. If abscesses or microinfarctions occur, you may need the help of a surgeon.

What you definitely shouldn’t do is self-medicate and use traditional medicine. Even if a decoction of medicinal herbs really relieves your pain, it certainly will not cure you of the problem that caused it. Not to mention the fact that many such herbs negatively affect the functioning of other organs, “they heal one thing, and cripple the other.”

Less popular causes of pain

In addition to the problems listed above, pain in the spleen can be caused by the following reasons::

• Hepatitis.
• Typhoid fever.
• Mononucleosis.
• Malaria.
• Sepsis.
• Syphilis.
• Atherosclerosis.

Conclusion

Thus, there are quite a few possible reasons why the spleen hurts, increases in size and causes other unpleasant sensations. Despite the fact that there are no pain receptors in this organ itself, patients still turn to doctors with complaints about some characteristic signs.

Most often they become aching pain in the left side of the body, under the rib, which radiates to the shoulder, shoulder blade or back. In addition, problems with the spleen can cause fever, nausea and vomiting, low blood pressure, paleness and cold sweats.

Among all possible diseases of the spleen that lead to pain, the most dangerous are cancer. A cancer tumor localized in the spleen is an insidious enemy, because in the initial stages of the disease, when the process is easiest to reverse, oncology is practically asymptomatic.

The main risk is the formation of metastases, which can “spread” to neighboring organs located in the abdominal cavity and affect them. Therefore, if an oncological tumor occurs in the spleen, the organ is urgently removed.

Whatever the symptoms you feel, remember that only correct and timely diagnosis can protect your health and even your life from dangerous diseases. Do not rely on traditional medicine methods and do not expect the pain to stop on its own - this will only expose you to unnecessary risks.