How is a person affected when the spleen is removed?
Life without a spleen You can be active without a spleen, but you’re at increased risk of becoming sick or getting serious infections. This risk is highest shortly after surgery. People without a spleen may also have a harder time recovering from an illness or injury.
Does spleen removal shorten life?
You can live without a spleen. But because the spleen plays a crucial role in the body’s ability to fight off bacteria, living without the organ makes you more likely to develop infections, especially dangerous ones such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae.
Does not having a spleen qualify for disability?
Under Diagnostic Code 7706, a splenectomy warrants a 20 percent disability rating. This diagnostic code also provides the instruction to rate complications such as systemic infections with encapsulated bacteria separately.
What function does spleen play?
The spleen is a small organ inside your left rib cage, just above the stomach. It’s part of the lymphatic system (which is part of the immune system). The spleen stores and filters blood and makes white blood cells that protect you from infection. Many diseases and conditions can affect how the spleen works.
What can you eat with no spleen?
Diet
- Eat several small meals each day.
- If your stomach is upset, try bland, low-fat foods like plain rice, broiled chicken, toast, and yogurt.
- Your doctor may tell you to take iron supplements.
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated.
What can you eat after spleen removal?
It’s common to feel full quickly after having this surgery. If your stomach is upset, try bland, low-fat foods like plain rice, broiled chicken, toast, and yogurt. Your doctor may tell you to take iron supplements. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated.