What is a Spleen?
- An organ that is located in the upper left area of the abdomen and below the stomach.**
- The spleen’s job is to filter and remove old blood cells and bacteria.**
- It also makes red blood cells and is important in helping the body fight infection.**
Spleen Injuries
- The spleen is easily injured in children due to falls, bicycle crashes, contact sports, motor vehicle crashes, and violence.
- A spleen injury may also happen from a gunshot wound or knife wound which tears and cuts the organ.
- A spleen injury takes time and rest to heal.
- It is important that the spleen heal without another injury. Even a minor re-injury could cause serious complications such a bleeding, longer recovery time, or even death.
Spleen Precautions:
- Do not lift, push, or pull more than 10 pounds.
- No contact sports or activities such as soccer, football, hockey, wrestling, running, bicycle or scooter riding for at least six to eight weeks.
- Your doctor will tell you when it is OK to start these activities.
- Do not take aspirin, Advil®, Aleve® or Ibuprofen, Motrin®, or other anti- inflammatory medications for six weeks unless approved by a doctor. These medications may increase your risk of bleeding.
- Try to take pain medications with food to prevent upset stomach.
Call your physician** or go to the nearest emergency department immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Worsening shortness of breath
- New or increase in stomach pain, left shoulder or left lower back pain
- Fever greater than 101 degree F
- Fainting or dizziness when standing up
- Increase in heart rate
- Pale color skin
- Increased weakness or feeling very tired
- Lack of appetite, upset stomach, or vomiting
- GI bleeding or black-colored stools
Return to school on: ___________________________________
No Physical exercise class/gym until:______________________
