According to the Mayo Clinic, a ruptured spleen is an emergency medical condition that occurs when the spleen experiences a trauma. The spleen is an important center for immune system activities. According to MDGuidelines.com, splenic rupture occurs in 25 percent to 30 percent of motor vehicle accidents in which blunt abdominal trauma is diagnosed. Some of the complications from a ruptured spleen are immune system complications, bleeding into abdominal cavity and severe abdominal pain.
Problems with the Immune System
A ruptured spleen can cause immune system complications. According to MayoClinic.com, a ruptured spleen can cause immune system complications in patients undergoing a splenectomy. The spleen produces red blood cells and certain types of white blood cells that help fight infections. Patients undergoing a splenectomy are more likely to contract serious or life-threatening infections. MayoClinic.com recommends a pneumonia vaccine, as well as yearly flu vaccines for such patients.
Life-Threatening Bleeding into the Abdominal Cavity
According to MayoClinic.com, a ruptured spleen can result in life-threatening bleeding into the abdominal cavity. This can further lead to low blood pressure and an insufficient supply of oxygen to the brain and heart. However, the amount of bleeding depends on the size of injury. An injured spleen can rupture soon after the abdominal trauma or, in some cases, days or even weeks after the injury. MayoClinic.com recommends that such patients consult a physician for immediate medical care.
Severe Abdominal Pain
According to MayoClinic.com, severe abdominal pain can be caused by a ruptured spleen. A ruptured spleen results in the loss of a large amount of blood in the abdominal cavity. This blood in the abdomen acts as an irritant and causes severe abdominal pain. MayoClinic.com advises such patients to consult a physician immediately.
