What is the most common cause of an enlarged spleen?

What is the most common cause of an enlarged spleen?

Infections, such as mononucleosis, are among the most common causes of splenomegaly. Problems with your liver, such as cirrhosisand cystic fibrosis, can also cause an enlarged spleen. Another possible cause of splenomegaly is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. This condition can cause inflammation of the lymph system.

Can an enlarged spleen go back to normal?

What Is the Prognosis for Enlarged Spleen? Depending upon the cause, the enlarged spleen may return to normal size and function when the underlying disease is treated or resolved. Commonly, in infectious mononucleosis, the spleen returns to normal as the infection gets better.

What are symptoms of enlarged spleen?

Symptoms

• Pain or fullness in the left upper belly that can spread to the left shoulder.
• A feeling of fullness without eating or after eating a small amount because the spleen is pressing on your stomach.
• Low red blood cells (anemia)
• Frequent infections.
• Bleeding easily.

Can pregnancy affect your spleen?

Circulating hormones such as estrogen and progesterone cause structural changes to the spleen that may increase the risk of splenic rupture during pregnancy even after minor trauma [1]. Splenic rupture is more common in the third trimester, but some cases of rupture occurred in the post partum period [2, 4].

What foods to avoid if you have an enlarged spleen?

Avoid contact sports — such as soccer, football and hockey — and limit other activities as recommended by your doctor. Modifying your activities can reduce the risk of a ruptured spleen. It’s also important to wear a seat belt. If you’re in a car accident, a seat belt can help prevent injury to your spleen.

Will enlarged spleen go away?

The spleen is not usually removed if it’s just enlarged. Instead, you’ll receive treatment for any underlying condition and your spleen will be monitored. You may be prescribed antibiotics if there’s an infection.

Where is spleen located during pregnancy?

The spleen is an organ in the upper far left part of the abdomen, to the left of the stomach.

Can your spleen go back to normal size?

Depending upon the cause, the enlarged spleen may return to normal size and function when the underlying disease is treated or resolved. Commonly, in infectious mononucleosis, the spleen returns to normal as the infection gets better.

How can I reduce my enlarged spleen?

If an enlarged spleen causes serious complications or the cause can’t be identified or treated, surgery to remove your spleen (splenectomy) might be an option. In chronic or critical cases, surgery might offer the best hope for recovery. Elective spleen removal requires careful consideration.