Spleen

[chrisage24]

Hi Guys,

I've never used this site before so I maybe in the wrong area... its so unclear...

Basically, I have a grossly enlarged spleen. I have been for an ultrasound and I'm seeing a haematologist this weekend. I have lost about 1 stone in weight in the last two months. The left side of my abdomen is solid from my ribs down to below my belly button. I'm finding it increasingly difficult to breath. No one is able to tell me what these symptoms may or may not mean - I'm getting really worried. Can anyone help me understand the possibilities? Can you live without a spleen? What does it do? Why is it so massive? I've stopped drinking alcohol all together and I quit smoking about 1month ago - should I be doing anything else?

Thanks for reading this.

x

[Robe22]

hello sir... im robe from philippines. I would like to ask if there are other options instead of splenectomy coz my doctor said that i should undergo splenectomy because the spleen is now large but I dont want to.
Im afraid of surgery and i dont want my spleen to be taken out from my body.
I think im still feel better coz when i press my abdomen, i dont feel any pain yet aside from my left back and chest.
Can you please send me your advice??

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
There are many causes of an enlarged spleen.
Infections, hemolytic disorders, polycythemia, lymphoma, and leukemia can all cause splenic enlargement.
It would be best to consult your doctor in order to know what is causing the enlargement.
Splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) can be done once there is an indication.
Good luck.