Understanding Spleen Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

The spleen is an abdominal organ located on the left side under the rib cage. Spleen pain may be attributed to a splenomegaly, which is an enlargement of the spleen, or spleen pain may be associated with a ruptured spleen.

Identification

• A problem with the spleen may be noticed during a medical exam or it may be found during an ultrasound or CT scan of the abdominal area.

Causes

• The spleen may become enlarged as a result of an infection. Infections that may cause spleen problems include mononucleosis, syphilis, endocarditis and malaria. Spleen problems may also occur as a result of liver disease.

Features

• Spleen pain is typically felt in the upper left abdominal area; however, it may also be felt in the left shoulder area and may intensify when breathing deeply. According to the Mayo Clinic, other symptoms that may accompany spleen pain include a feeling of fullness, fatigue, easy bleeding and frequent infection.

Treatment

• Physicians address spleen pain by treating the underlying condition causing the spleen pain. In severe cases, the spleen may need to be removed to prevent rupture of the spleen.

Ruptured Spleen

• If the spleen ruptures, emergency medical treatment is required to prevent life-threatening complications. The pain associated with a ruptured spleen may be accompanied by left upper abdominal tenderness. If internal bleeding occurs, you may feel dizzy and confused.