An enlarged spleen, also known as splenomegaly, occurs when the spleen becomes abnormally large. It can be caused by various factors, including infections, liver diseases, blood disorders, and certain medications. Checking for an enlarged spleen is crucial, as it can indicate underlying health conditions that require medical attention.
The spleen plays a vital role in filtering blood, removing old or damaged red blood cells, and storing platelets. An enlarged spleen may not always cause symptoms, but in some cases, it can lead to abdominal pain, discomfort, or a feeling of fullness. Additionally, an enlarged spleen can increase the risk of infections and bleeding disorders due to reduced platelet count.