Why Does My Spleen Hurt?

The spleen is an organ located on the left side of the abdomen. It becomes enlarged and inflamed for various reasons. When the spleen is injured or becomes enlarged, it can result in tenderness and pain.

Infection

• When the spleen becomes infected, it enlarges. Initially there may be no symptoms associated with an infected spleen, but tenderness is one possible symptom.

Polycythemia Vera

• A condition known as polycythemia vera occurs when red blood cells multiply uncontrollably. Pain in the spleen is one symptom of polycythemia vera.

Trauma

• Injury that occurs during sports, an accident or other blunt force to the spleen causes trauma to the spleen and can result in pain.

Splenic Sequestration

• Splenic sequestration results when blood gets trapped in the spleen. This causes the spleen to enlarge and become tender to the touch.

Sickle Cell Trait

• Sickle cell trait is another cause of an enlarged spleen. As is often the case, when the spleen is enlarged as a result of sickle cell trait, it becomes painful.