Living without spleen: how dangerous is that?
Life without spleen: Function of the spleen
The spleen is a mere 150 grams of light organ located behind the stomach. Since the spleen is important to our body, doctors try to keep the organ as long as possible. The spleen essentially fulfills two functions in our body:
- Defense of bacteria (pathogens)
- Filtering of blood (old red blood cells)
Living without spleen: following a distance
- After removal of the spleen patients are more susceptible to bacterial infections, Because the spleen fights off such diseases, in people without spleen, some infections can be significantly more dangerous to the body.
- especially the Sepsis, blood poisoning, can occur when the immune system stops working after an infection. Sepsis causes death in approximately 50 percent of affected patients, while survivors often have their limbs amputated. However, this can be prevented with preventive vaccinations (see next section).
- Similarly, it can be in humans after a Milzentfernung to a Increase of platelets (platelets) come in the blood, which leads to an increased risk of thrombosis.
Life without spleen: vaccinations as protection
The medicine sees three vaccinations after a Milzentfernung as absolutely necessary:
- pneumococcal
- meningococcal
- Haemophilus influenzae type b
- In addition, the flu shot is recommended
Pneumococci are considered the most urgent of the three vaccinations for patients. Pneumococcal bacterial infections are the main cause of sepsis. The vaccines have to be refreshed every three to five years as they do not permanently protect against illness.
Living without spleen: consult a doctor
- Although vaccines provide good protection against bacteria such as pneumococci, they do not guarantee the body with absolute guarantee. Patients without spleen should therefore be Contact doctors immediately if an infection occurs, Also with an animal bite fast action is necessary, since here likewise the danger of a Sepsis exists.
- Since doctors are not available around the clock, it makes sense to have an emergency antibiotic prescribed. If, for example, an infection occurs on a journey and no doctor is present, the antibiotic can protect you from serious complications. However, whether an antibiotic is also an option for prevention is not yet clear.
What a life without a gallbladder looks like, you will find out here. We also describe what it means for people to be mentally ill. Last but not least, you will find out from us what an arthritis diet looks like.
If you want to share your health with others, check out our ChroniquesDuVasteMonde community.
Video tip: 7 tips for healthy nutrition
