What Is a Ruptured Spleen?
The spleen is a small organ located at the left side of your body under your rib cage. It is a fist-sized organ that contains special white blood cells that destroy bacteria. It also filters the blood and removes damaged platelets and blood cells.
Any injury to the spleen can result in a serious medical condition called ruptured spleen. It occurs when the capsule-like covering of the organ breaks open, causing internal bleeding. Ruptured spleen symptoms are detectable and require immediate treatment.
Causes of Ruptured Spleen
Spleen rupture can be caused by severe direct blow.
- Vehicular accidents
- Sports injuries
- Domestic violence
- Drug abuse
Certain illnesses can also cause a ruptured spleen. Here are some of these illnesses:
- Malaria
- Hematological or Blood diseases
- Sickle cell anemia
- Vasculitis
- Leukemia
- Enlarged spleen
- Infectious Mononucleosis.
Spleen Rupture Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms vary on the size of the injury and amount of blood that leaks out. Abdominal pain and tenderness are the classic symptoms. Left shoulder pain and rapid heart rate are also signs of this injury. Internal bleeding due to the ruptured spleen can cause low blood pressure thus resulting to:
- Light-headedness
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
Spleen Rupture Treatment
A ruptured spleen is an emergency medical condition that requires immediate medical attention.