What is Splenomegaly?

The spleen is an organ that plays an important role in the body's immune system and blood circulation. It is located in the upper left part of the abdominal cavity. Normally about the size of a fist, the spleen can become enlarged as a result of some diseases or infections. What is splenomegaly? It is the condition in which the spleen grows beyond its normal size.

What are the symptoms of splenomegaly?

It is a condition characterized by the spleen becoming larger than normal. It is often seen as a symptom of another underlying disease. As part of the immune system, the spleen protects the body against infections and filters blood cells. However, when enlarged, it may not be able to carry out these functions healthily.

• In the early stage splenomegaly It usually does not cause any symptoms. Therefore, most patients learn about splenomegaly during another disease investigation. However, when the spleen becomes significantly enlarged, some complaints begin to appear.
• Pain in the upper left abdomen may become more severe, especially when taking a deep breath.
• The enlarged spleen puts pressure on the stomach, which can cause a feeling of fullness.
• Anemia may occur as a result of rapid breakdown of blood cells, which causes weakness and fatigue.
• If the spleen cannot perform its function adequately, the immune system weakens.
• A decrease in platelet count may lead to symptoms such as easy bruising or a bleeding tendency.
• Loss of appetite and systemic disease may cause weight loss.
• In some patients, swelling in the abdomen may become visible. This is especially noticeable in people with thin builds.

Splenomegaly symptoms can be confused with other health problems. Therefore, careful evaluation is required. If even one of these symptoms is felt, it is important to see a doctor without delay. Early diagnosis prevents possible serious diseases.

What Causes Splenomegaly?

Splenomegaly, is an important condition that occurs due to various diseases or disorders in the body. The spleen is a part of the immune system. It filters blood cells, regulates the immune response and contributes to the storage of certain substances. If this organ becomes larger than normal, it may indicate different underlying causes.

One of the most common causes is infections. Bacterial, viral or parasitic infections can affect the spleen. Diseases such as mononucleosis, hepatitis and malaria can cause enlargement of the spleen. Cirrhosis of the liver is another common cause. This deterioration in the liver causes blood to accumulate in the spleen and the spleen experiences increased pressure. This condition develops with portal hypertension.

Blood diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma and hemolytic anemia can also cause an enlarged spleen. In these diseases, the spleen works excessively to clear abnormal cells and its volume increases. It can also be affected by diseases that affect the immune system, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Overactivity of immune system cells can trigger an enlarged spleen.

Spleen enlargement can be a sign of different systemic diseases. Therefore, when splenomegaly is detected, it is of great importance to find the underlying cause. Expert evaluation is essential for correct diagnosis and treatment.

How Is Splenomegaly Treated?

Spleen enlargement is not a disease in itself. It is usually seen as a symptom of another health problem. Therefore, treatment begins with determining the condition that causes the enlargement. Once the underlying cause is found, the treatment process is planned specifically for the individual.

One of the most common causes is infections. If the spleen enlargement is due to an infection, treatment is done with medications. When the infection is brought under control, the spleen enlargement may also regress.

It is also common in liver diseases. Especially in cases such as cirrhosis or portal hypertension, the liver is supported. Appropriate medications are used to reduce the pressure on the spleen.

Different treatments may be required for conditions such as blood diseases or cancer. Chemotherapy, immunotherapy or drugs containing cortisone may be applied to these patients. With appropriate treatment, both the disease can be controlled and the growth in the spleen can be reduced.

In some patients, the spleen may become very large. In this case, it may put pressure on surrounding organs or may break down blood cells excessively. In such cases, surgical intervention is considered. Splenectomy, that is, removal of the spleen, may be performed.

Patients who have had their spleens removed should have regular check-ups with their doctors. It is also important to protect themselves from infections. Therefore, the necessary vaccinations should be made. Supporting the immune system is also important.

What is Splenomegaly? What is the Post-Treatment Process?

Splenomegaly, means spleen enlargement. The spleen is responsible for the immune system. It helps filter blood cells. It is normally the size of a fist, but its volume can increase due to some diseases. This condition is not a disease in itself. It is a symptom of another health problem.

An enlarged spleen can be caused by various diseases and disorders. Symptoms include fullness in the upper left abdomen, feeling full early, fatigue, frequent infections and anemia.

Treatment is planned according to the underlying cause. If it is an infection, it can be controlled with antibiotics or antiviral drugs. If it is due to cancer or blood diseases, chemotherapy or immune system regulating treatments can be applied. In rare cases, if the spleen becomes very large or causes serious problems, it may need to be surgically removed.

Patients need to be careful in the post-surgical process. Since the spleen contributes to the immune system, the risk of infection increases if it is removed. Therefore, some vaccinations are recommended and it is important to protect patients from infections.

Ultimately, the recovery process after treatment depends on the type of underlying disease. What is splenomegaly? Understanding the answer to the question and the causes of the disease well allows for conscious action during the healing process. Regular follow-up, compliance with physician recommendations and healthy living habits should be practiced. These contribute to the successful completion of the process.