Bruised Spleen

A bruised spleen (or spleen contusion) is bruising to the spleen which occurs after a direct impact to the upper left abdomen. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect a spleen injury. Symptoms include:

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  • Immediate pain on the left side of the body
  • Nausea
  • Referred pain to the left shoulder or arm
  • Abdominal Tenderness
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Treatment: A doctor will carry out an examination and may require further investigations such as ultrasound or CT scans to determine the extent of the injury and if there is any internal bleeding (see ruptured spleen). Most spleen contusions will heal successfully on their own, provided there are no other complications. Rest and observation should be undertaken and a hospital stay is usually advised so you can be closely monitored. Bleeding from the spleen may not be picked up initially so further tests are usually carried out after a day or two to confirm that it is just a contusion.

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