What Is Enlarged Spleen?
Enlarged spleen is generally termed as Splenomegaly. It is an enlargement of the spleen that is often associated with any other disease that involves an aberration in the red blood cells.
The incidence is believed to be in response to hyperfunction in order to compensate for the rapid breakdown in the red blood cells. Spleen is a tiny organ that is in the size of a fist and is located in the peritoneal cavity particularly in the right upper quadrant.
It is housed and protected by the rib cage and the average weight is about 200g and size is about 11cm in length in healthy adults. The function of this organ is essential to sustain a healthy functioning of the body system.
Spleen functions in filtering blood and removing byproducts of red blood cells breakdown including other materials and particles that can pass through the blood vessels. Spleen also functions in helping the immune system by synthesizing lymphocytes.
Enlarged Spleen Causes
- Bacterial infections
- Viruses
- Cancer that has spread
- Parasites
- Alcohol or drug use
- Inflammation related to a diet high in chemicals, preservatives, pesticides and other toxins
- Liver disease or cirrhosis
- Blood diseases characterized by abnormal blood cells
- Disorders of the lymph system
- Autoimmune reactions and disorders such as arthritis
- Physical trauma to the spleen or an injury.
Enlarged Spleen Symptoms
- Indigestion or feeling uncomfortable when eating, especially after a large meal
- Spleen pain when taking deep breaths or moving around
- Spleen pain and tenderness, usually on the upper left side of your abdomen
- Pain that has spread from the abdomen to the left shoulder
- Low energy levels, possibly chronic fatigue
- Frequent infections
- Bleeding and bruising easily.
- Symptoms of jaundice
- Symptoms of anemia
- Unexplained weight loss.
Spleen Enlargement Home Remedies
Exercise
Natural Remedies for enlarged spleen include few exercises. In order for the lymphatic system to properly drain fluids, you need to move. All know that exercise promotes blood circulation and reduces inflammation.
Regular workouts can help keep fluids moving throughout your body, which is an essential factor in a healthy spleen. The spleen is responsible for filtering particles within lymph fluids.
Eat A Nutritious Diet
The spleen generally helps turn all the nutrients from digested food into fuel that the body can use for energy. An unhealthy spleen is linked to many health conditions, including fatigue and anemia.
To support your spleen and also your lymphatic system, eat a diet that is high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to help lower inflammation and reduce free radical damage.
Avoid eating few foods that place added stress on your body such as common allergens, low-quality animal products, sugary foods and snacks, processed foods and refined vegetable oils.
Load up on anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and spices.
Reduce Stress
Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, leading to inflammation, digestive problems and other health issues. Stress can affect the lymphatic, immune and digestive systems and worsen enlarged spleen symptoms.
Combat your stress by exercising, participating in a relaxing hobby, walking in nature, taking warm baths and taking part in other stress-relieving activities.
Use Essential Oils
Many essential oils can work for enlarged spleen treatment naturally. Essential oils that reduce inflammation, fight infections, increase blood flow and reduce pain, it include lemon, myrrh, oregano, cypress and frankincense.
Combine several drops of your chosen essential oil with a carrier oil, then massage the mixture over the spleen 2-3 times per day to help improve circulation and fight swelling.
By following all the above remedies you can reduce enlarged spleen and apart from remedies you can also try for diet that can reduce this problem. If you have major problem with your spleen you can consult your doctor for better treatment.