The spleen is a small organ in the upper left part of the belly (abdomen). It sits under the left ribs in front of and behind the stomach. It is part of your immune system. It helps make red blood cells, removes old and diseased cells from your bloodstream, and acts as a reservoir for blood in case of a bleeding emergency. The spleen can be injured from things like:
-
A car accident
-
A penetrating injury, such as a knife wound
-
A direct hit to the belly while playing sports
-
A fall that injures the belly
-
A fight or assault
-
Certain viral infections, such as Epstein-Barr mononucleosis
The injury may be a hematoma or a cut (laceration). The spleen has a lot of blood vessels. A hematoma is when a blood vessel is broken and there is a collection of blood outside the blood vessel. A laceration means the tissue is cut and bleeds.
At home
The spleen may take up to 3 months to heal. It’s important to rest and let it heal. This is to help prevent rupture of the spleen. A ruptured spleen is a life-threatening medical emergency that may result in large amounts of internal bleeding and shock. If the spleen ruptures, immediate surgery is required. General guidelines for activity following spleen injury are listed below.
For the next 5 to 10 days:
-
Rest in bed as needed.
-
Take pain medicine as advised.
-
Do only light activities. Walking is OK.
-
Watch for signs of bleeding and shock (see “Call 911” below).
For the next 2 to 3 months:
-
Don’t strain by lifting, pushing, or pulling anything heavy. Don’t vacuum, shovel, or mow.
-
Don’t do high-risk activities (see below).
High-risk activities include things like:
-
Sports
-
Cycling
-
Skiing
-
Hiking
-
Horseback riding
-
Riding an ATV
-
Aerobics or other vigorous exercise
-
Belly exercises
-
Vigorous sex
Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider as advised. You may need imaging tests or blood tests to be sure you are healing well.
Call 911
Call
-
Pale, cold, clammy skin
-
Fast pulse
-
Difficulty breathing or shallow or rapid breathing
-
Dizziness or lightheadedness
-
Fainting
-
Confusion
-
Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
When to call your healthcare provider
Call your healthcare provider or seek medical care right away if you have any of these:
-
Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised
-
Chills
-
Vomiting
-
Belly pain that doesn’t get better, or gets worse
-
Other new symptoms
