Spleen Health
The spleen is a small organ on the left side of the body behind the rib cage. It is part of the body’s blood and immune systems. Its job is to remove abnormal cells and microorganisms from the blood to protect the body from foreign substances. It can become enlarged, usually because of other health disorders such as infections, cancer, and liver disease. A ruptured spleen—typically the result of a car accident, assault, or sports injury—is a serious emergency because it causes internal bleeding. The only way to prevent an enlarged spleen is to prevent or cure the underlying medical condition. To prevent a ruptured spleen, you can wear protective gear during sports and a seat belt while driving safely. If the spleen must be removed, a person will be more prone to infections and have a diminished immune system.
