Spleen Injuries

Also known as: rupture spleen, bruised spleen, splenic injury.

What are spleen injuries?

The spleen is an important body part located under the rib cage that filters blood and helps the body fight infection. When the spleen gets injured, it can cause problems. In the case of a ruptured spleen it’s a medical emergency.

What causes spleen injuries?

Many spleen injuries come from a direct impact the spleen via a car accident or sports injury. An enlarged spleen due to infections or other medical conditions can also become injured.

What are the symptoms of spleen injuries?

Abdominal pain, tenderness, confusion, lightheadedness and dizziness are all possible symptoms of spleen injuries. The pain may also radiate up to the left shoulder in some instances.

What are spleen injury care options?

Mild spleen injuries will heal on their own. People with these injuries often need to rest or take it easy for a few days. A ruptured spleen will require surgery to either repair the spleen or remove part or all of it.


Reviewed by: Jose R. Rosa-Olivares

This page was last updated on: October 16, 2019 01:48 PM