What are the causes and risks of an enlarged spleen?

In general, splenomegaly (enlarged spleen) may be caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits, intense physical exercise, improper diet, hepatitis, or hypersplenism. Potential complications include decreased immune function, compression of surrounding tissues, reduced blood cell counts, development of portal hypertension, and even splenic rupture. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. The following is a detailed analysis:

I. Causes

1. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits
Long-term sleep deprivation, excessive fatigue, and other poor lifestyle habits may impair spleen function and lead to splenomegaly. Maintaining healthy daily routines, engaging in moderate physical activity, and ensuring sufficient sleep are essential for prevention.

2. Intense Physical Exercise
During vigorous exercise, increased systemic blood circulation can temporarily enlarge the spleen. To prevent this, avoid overexertion and allow adequate rest to support recovery.

3. Improper Diet
Consuming hard-to-digest foods regularly or excessive alcohol intake may increase the burden on the spleen and raise the risk of splenomegaly. A light diet rich in dietary fiber and vitamins is recommended.

4. Hepatitis
Hepatitis is often associated with long-term alcohol consumption, exposure to chemical irritants, or parasitic infections. It may lead to spleen inflammation or cellular hyperplasia, resulting in persistent splenomegaly, commonly accompanied by symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Treatment may include ribavirin tablets, potassium magnesium aspartate injection, and diammonium glycyrrhizinate injection, as prescribed by a physician.

5. Hypersplenism
Hypersplenism is primarily caused by viral infections or liver cirrhosis. An overactive spleen destroys blood cells excessively, potentially leading to splenomegaly, along with symptoms such as abdominal bloating and anemia. Medications such as hepatoprotective tablets, cyclophosphamide compound tablets, and rituximab injection may be used under medical supervision.

Regular moderate physical activities such as jogging, swimming, and yoga are beneficial for improving physical fitness and boosting immunity.

II. Risks and Complications

1. Decreased Immune Function
The spleen is a vital immune organ. Splenomegaly may impair its immune function, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Regular physical exercise can help strengthen the body and enhance immunity.

2. Compression of Surrounding Tissues
An enlarged spleen may compress adjacent organs such as the stomach and intestines, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and indigestion. Attention to dietary adjustments and avoidance of overeating can help reduce the burden on the digestive system.

3. Reduced Circulating Blood Cells
Splenomegaly may lead to decreased levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the bloodstream, potentially resulting in anemia, increased susceptibility to infections, and bleeding tendencies. Monitor for signs of abnormal bleeding and seek timely medical evaluation with complete blood count testing.

4. Induction of Portal Hypertension
Splenomegaly is often associated with increased plasma volume, which may impair blood return and trigger portal hypertension, leading to complications such as ascites and gastrointestinal bleeding. Medications such as propranolol hydrochloride tablets, carvedilol tablets, and isosorbide mononitrate capsules may be used as directed by a physician.

5. Splenic Rupture
An enlarged spleen is at higher risk of rupture, which may cause acute abdominal pain, shock, and even life-threatening conditions. Avoid vigorous physical activity and trauma, and undergo regular check-ups to monitor spleen size and structural changes.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle, ensure adequate rest and sleep, and avoid consuming coarse or hard foods. Follow medical advice for regular monitoring of spleen size and function.