Why is the Spleen Easy to Injure?

The spleen is easy to injure because of its location. It is a small organ located just under your ribs on the left side. A blow to your abdomen can easily lead to injury or rupture.

Purpose

• The spleen is part of the lymphatic system. Its purpose is to help fight infection and keep bodily fluids in balance.

Enlargement

• Certain diseases cause the spleen to swell, which is known as enlargement of the spleen. An enlarged spleen can be caused by infection, cirrhosis and blood cancer. The risk of rupturing your spleen is far greater once the organ is enlarged, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Injury

• The spleen damage is the most common complication of abdominal injuries such as car accidents or falls, according to Merck Manuals. Injury to the spleen results in the release of blood into the abdomen.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of an injured spleen include abdominal pain and tenderness in the left side of the abdomen just below the rib cage. Your blood pressure may drop, leading to lightheadedness and possibly loss of consciousness.

Treatment

• Small to moderate spleen injuries can heal without surgery. If your injury is severe, the spleen may be surgically removed or repaired. Removal of the spleen is called a splenectomy. You can live without a spleen, but your risk of serious infections is increased once it is removed.