Spleen
The spleen is an important organ located in the upper left side of your abdomen, just behind your rib cage. It is about the size of your fist and part of your lymphatic system, which plays a key role in your body's defense against infection. The spleen helps filter your blood by removing old or damaged red blood cells and producing white blood cells called lymphocytes that fight infection.
Aside from its role in filtering blood, the spleen also stores red blood cells and platelets, which are vital for blood clotting and healing. Despite being an important organ, the spleen is not essential for survival. Other organs, such as the liver, can take over some of its functions if it is removed due to injury or disease.
Taking care of your spleen involves maintaining a healthy immune system through proper diet, exercise, and avoiding infections. It's important to seek medical advice if you experience symptoms like discomfort in the upper left abdomen, fatigue, or frequent infections, as these may indicate spleen-related issues.
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