\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Taking milk thistle can help to correct this underlying problem, bringing your spleen back into equilibrium 1. Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere. When to Go to the Emergency Department for an Enlarged Spleen. Review/update the A small percentage of the normal American population may have a palpable or enlarged spleen. Can a dogs enlarged heart go back to normal? We know the feeling. It is common for drug-induced side effects to subside after a short period of time, as long as the spleen size remains constant. Trauma from automobile accidents or contact sports can also cause an enlarged spleen. Luba has certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Emergency Medicine, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Team Building, and Critical Care Nursing. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). It is best to avoid direct contact with the organ for a few weeks to avoid further damage. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly). This treatment has many side effects, including heavy vomiting. Researchers say hormonal birth control may have some effects on the brains of adolescents, but the pills still provide benefits in preventing, The average American man is about 5 foot 9 inches. This usually happens when the spleen becomes enlarged to the point that it presses on the stomach. CAN A CHEST XRAY DETECT AN ENLARGED SPLEEN. People may also have abdominal or back pain in the area of the spleen in the upper left part of the abdomen or the left side of the back. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. DOI: Ehimwenma O, et al. An enlarged spleen is a condition in which the spleen is larger than normal. Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner. Your doctor will be able to tell you what you have: severe pain in your left side of the abdomen that worsens when you breathe, fever, chills, or sore throat, all of which should be evaluated. What Are the Complications of an Enlarged Spleen? But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. Abnormal blood flow and congestion (splenic vein thrombosis, portal vein obstruction, Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). br> What you eat. including conditions linked to an enlarged spleen: Sugar-sweetened beverages: soda, milkshakes, iced tea, energy drinks. An enlarged spleen can also cause anemia in addition to low red blood cells. X For these, please consult a doctor (virtually or in person). Other studies have found slightly different averages. Your doctor can often feel it by gently examining your left upper belly. In very serious cases of spleen dysfunction, the organ can be removed. Some causes are temporary and others may indicate a chronic or progressive condition. 3. Depending upon the cause, the enlarged spleen may return to normal size and function when the underlying disease is treated or resolved. Pancreatitis is inflammation of an organ in the abdomen called the pancreas. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. If youre not sure what you can safely eat while your spleen is healing, ask your doctor. Even though I'm 62 yrs of age, I really give er. (1991). Many illnesses and diseases result with the enlarged spleen as a permanent physical finding and may result in only a fair progno. Really can an enlarged spleen go back to normal size er the cabin can cause liver disease, lupus, and mono can be... What size is considered splenomegaly swollen or enlarged spleen to digest and avoid foods cause... 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