The spleen is one of the organs in the human body. In appearance, it resembles a flattened egg or a human tongue. It weighs approximately 150 grams (in an adult). Its weight can fluctuate due to infection, inflammation, or other medical conditions. The spleen is a soft, spongy organ and a vital part of the lymphatic system. The functions of the spleen are all listed below.
location of spleen
The spleen is located on the left side of the body near the lower ribs specifically close to the ninth and tenth ribs and is protected by the rib cage. It is situated near several vital organs, such as the stomach, pancreas, left kidney, and colon. Although its size and shape may vary depending on a person's age, weight, and body size, its general location remains the same in everyone.
parts of spleen
These are the two parts, and the details regarding them are provided below.
Red Pulp
White Pulp
Red pulp
It is considered a major part of the spleen, and its function is to filter blood. Sinusoids are specialized blood vessels through which blood flows. Blood flows slowly through these blood vessels, and during this process, the spleen removes old or damaged red blood cells. The red pulp contains macrophages, which help break down and remove debris and foreign particles from the blood.
White pulp
God has provided a specific protector for every organ. The function of the white pulp is to protect the spleen specifically through white blood cells by storing white blood cells that help fight infections. The white pulp is composed of lymphoid tissue. It contains various types of immune cells such as T cells and B cells that help identify and destroy foreign invaders. So it is called white pulp.
functions of spleen
The information provided above regarding the functions of the red pulp and white pulp essentially describes the function of the spleen; however, it has also been explained simply below.
It purifies the blood by removing cellular waste and eliminating old or damaged blood cells.
It produces white blood cells and antibodies that help you fight infections.
It stores blood.
It maintains the fluid levels in our body.
It produces antibodies that protect you from infection.
size and shape of spleen
Its size depends on factors such as the person's age, weight, height, gender, and overall body build. Typically, it measures 11 cm (2.8 inches) in length, 7 cm (2.8 inches) in width, and 4 cm (1.6 inches) in thickness. Its size and shape sometimes fluctuate when the patient has an illness, and it returns to normal later.
weight of spleen
As the size and shape of the spleen change, its weight also fluctuates; typically, it weighs 150 grams (in adults). Although the spleen's weight changes during conditions such as infection or inflammation, it subsequently returns to normal.
some disease of spleen
splenomegaly
In this condition, the size of the spleen increases. Causes include infections, liver disease, and cancer. Symptoms include abdominal pain, a feeling of fullness after eating even a small amount, fatigue, and anemia.
Splenic rupture
In some cases, the spleen sustains an injury or a direct blow; this is known as a 'splenic rupture'. Such situations are characterized by severe abdominal pain and difficulty breathing.
Splenic abscess
Spleen abscesses are somewhat distinct; they occur when a collection of pus forms within the spleen (usually due to infection). Fever and abdominal pain are the symptoms.
Spleen cancer
Cancer of the spleen is very rare typically, the cancer originates in another organ and spreads to the spleen, yet the condition is extremely distressing and painful.
Splenic infarction
In these conditions, blood flow to the spleen is cut off; the lack of blood and oxygen damages some of the splenic tissue. Additionally, the failure of blood to reach certain splenic arteries leads to arterial blockages a condition known as 'splenic infarction'.
Splenic infarction
The spleen performs several functions in the body, primarily removing old or damaged red blood cells from the bloodstream. However, in certain medical conditions such as sickle cell anemia and autoimmune hemolytic anemia the spleen becomes overactive and removes excessive amounts of red blood cells, leading to a shortage of blood in the body.
Some Foods for Healthy Spleen
The 12 best foods for spleen health are listed inside this box.
Will eating vegetables keep us healthy?
Yes, eating vegetables helps keep many of our organs healthy, including the spleen.
Can drinking alcohol damage the spleen?
Consuming alcohol can affect not only the spleen but all the organs of the body; therefore, one should give up alcohol completely.
Is exercise necessary for keeping the spleen healthy?
Exercise is essential for staying healthy in life. If you wish to lead a long and disease-free life, exercising for 30 minutes daily is crucial. Daily exercise not only keeps the entire body fit but also maintains the health of the spleen.
Let's look at some multiple-choice questions and answers.
1. What is the weight of the spleen? (In Adult)
(i) 150 gram (ii) 250 gram
(iii) 450 gram (iv) 500 gram
Answer : 150 gram
2. What happens to the spleen in a case of splenomegaly?
(i) Big (ii) Small
(iii) No pain (iv) No infection
Answer : Big
3. What should be avoided for a healthy spleen?
(i) Vegetables (ii) Exercise
(iii) Water (iv) Alcohol
Answer : Alcohol
4. Which of these is a part of the spleen?
(i) Red and White pulp (ii) Gallbladder and gallstone
(iii) Palatine tonsil (iv) Lingual tonsils
Answer : Red and White pulp
5. Where is the spleen located in the human body?
(i) Chest (ii) Lower abdomen
(iii) Brain (iv) Left abdomen
Answer : Left abdomen
If a person's spleen is removed from their body, can they survive?
People will remain alive, but your body's immune system could be weakened you should certainly consult a doctor for more information on this.
Which foods damage our spleen?
Excessive consumption of various types of food and drink such as cold drinks, soda, fast food, junk food, and non-vegetarian items harms both the body and the spleen.
DISCLAIMER : All content available on this website is for informational purposes only. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are suffering from any illness, please consult a doctor immediately. Do not disregard your doctor's advice based on the information provided on this website.
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