Can Sleep Apnea Cause an Enlarged Spleen?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes pauses in breathing during sleep. It can lead to a number of health problems, including an enlarged spleen. An enlarged spleen is a condition where the spleen becomes abnormally large due to an increase in its size or weight.
How Does Sleep Apnea Cause an Enlarged Spleen?
The exact mechanism by which sleep apnea causes an enlarged spleen is not fully understood. However, it is believed that the lack of oxygen caused by the pauses in breathing during sleep can cause damage to the cells of the spleen, leading to its enlargement. Additionally, sleep apnea can also lead to increased levels of stress hormones, which can further contribute to the enlargement of the spleen.
What Are The Symptoms Of An Enlarged Spleen?
The most common symptom of an enlarged spleen is abdominal pain or discomfort. Other symptoms may include fatigue, loss of appetite, and feeling full after eating only a small amount of food. In some cases, an enlarged spleen may cause complications such as anemia or infection.
How Is An Enlarged Spleen Treated?
Treatment for an enlarged spleen depends on the underlying cause. If sleep apnea is causing the enlargement, then treating the sleep disorder may help reduce the size of the spleen. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove part or all of the spleen.