In ancient times, it was believed that the spleen is part of a system that processes black bile from the liver. It was believed that this body is generally useless. A few decades ago, doctors even recommended removing it, as well as the appendix. Modern scientists have proven the importance of the spleen. The organ acts as a filter for blood and pathogens. Very few people know what the spleen is for. Nobody thinks about the important functions of an organ. Do I need a spleen at all? Let's try to figure it out!
Where is the spleen located?
The spleen is a relatively small organ. As a rule, it is even impossible to feel it outside. The shape of the spleen resembles coffee beans or beans, and its size does not exceed 15 cm in diameter in an adult. It is soft in structure. Color, depending on the state, varies from cherry red to blue and violet.
The spleen is located below the diaphragm, in the upper left abdomen. It borders on the left kidney and pancreas. On the outside, the spleen is surrounded by a capsule, which protects its soft tissue.
Through the arteries of the organ, blood flows into the liver. Thanks to such a system, a full volume of blood is pumped about 500 times a day! That's what the spleen in the body is for!
The organ has hematopoietic functions. The system controls the viruses entering the body through the production of immunoglobulins, which, in turn, guard the infection and toxins. Why do people need a spleen? To protect your health and always have excellent health.
Why do people need a spleen? main destination
All functions of the spleen are not yet fully understood. Nevertheless, it is known that it detects and filters out obsolete blood cells. Even small clumps will be caught by this "net". In addition, the spleen is a kind of storage of platelets, which, if necessary, will be returned to the bloodstream, for example, with bleeding. We all remember the pain in the left side, if you have to quickly go over. An unpleasant symptom is stitching and gradually disappears if the load decreases and the person returns to a calm state. This pain gives exactly the spleen. With a sharp load, the amount of oxygen decreases, and here again the spleen comes to the rescue. She throws in the stored blood, thereby replenishing the supply of oxygen.
The second and equally important function of the spleen is the control of the immune system. She is a manufacturer of macrophages. These are white blood cells involved in protecting against foreign substances, standing guard over the immune system. In young children, the spleen also helps in the formation of red blood cells. If the organ does not function properly, it is fraught with severe bleeding, which can be deadly. In case of
rupture of the spleen and severe bleeding, it is usually removed. Life without an organ is possible. But the
immune system is quite vulnerable. What is a spleen for a man for? To lead a normal lifestyle and not be afraid of infection at every step.
The spleen is also an organ that stores and is involved in the production of iron. This substance is essential for normal human life. Before asking why a spleen is needed, it is worth remembering about hemoglobin. The level of this substance is significantly reduced with a lack of iron.
The most common organ diseases
If the organ does not function properly, it begins to increase in size. This is the main problem that almost anyone can face. The size of the spleen can increase due to many reasons. Most often, the impetus is various infectious diseases, viruses, as well as pathologies of the pancreas and liver.
If a person is sick with hepatitis, syphilis, tuberculosis, the spleen will also increase in size. Another reason for poor health - parasites living in the human body. They can lead to the development of cysts, malignant neoplasms.
Serious injuries often lead to rupture of the spleen. Sometimes even an innocent ball kick can cause big problems. If there is pain after an injury or fall, you should immediately consult a doctor. Delay in this case is fraught with very serious consequences. In some cases, surgical intervention cannot be dispensed with.
How to identify an ailment?
If the spleen is greatly enlarged, then the doctor can determine this even with palpation of the left abdomen. Usually, an ultrasound scan (ultrasound) and computed tomography (CT) scan give a clearer picture of the disease. If the patient experiences pain, discomfort, a feeling of pressure in the left side, an additional study is worthwhile. After the diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe a course of treatment and explain to the patient why the spleen is needed and how to treat it.
The diagnosis is made. How to treat?
The best treatment is a balanced diet and diet. It is advisable to eat in small portions, 5-6 times a day. The diet can be prescribed the same as with other diseases of the digestive system. It is desirable to exclude fatty, spicy, sour and salty foods from the diet. Nutrition should be enriched with fish, lean meat, seafood and algae. Vegetables, fruits, fruit juices are also indispensable in maintaining the health of the spleen.
In some cases, you can not do without medical treatment. A suitable preparation can be prescribed only by a qualified specialist. The doctor can also clarify why a person needs a spleen.
Folk remedies to help
Of folk remedies, they most often resort to treatment with propolis and chicory. These are effective natural products. They well relieve spleen inflammation. Take propolis 30% alcohol tincture 3-4 times a day. A single dose is 30 drops. Propolis is best taken before meals, diluting the tincture with water.
For treatment, chicory root is also used. It is necessary to pour 20 grams of the root with a glass of boiling water, insist in a warm place for 30 minutes and strain. Take this tincture three times a day for two tablespoons. Chicory has firming, calming, analgesic properties. Pharmacies also sell ready-made chicory extract. It can be added to tea for a quarter of a teaspoon.
In diseases of the spleen, as well as for prevention, fresh cabbage juice is considered an excellent remedy. It is taken 2-3 times a day for 0.5 cups.
How to help the spleen stay healthy?
It is worth drinking more clean water. Two liters a day will be enough! It will help the spleen to cope with the cleansing functions. It is worth wearing spacious clothes, do not pull the belly area with belts and corsets. Vitamin complexes rich in copper will come to the rescue. Apples, gooseberries, raspberries, cherries also contain a lot of copper.
A healthy diet, fresh air, moderate physical activity will help maintain the body in good shape for many years. So what is the spleen for? To feel great every day!