Tag: Left upper quadrant

According to Mayo Clinic, the spleen is located in the upper left part of the abdomen, and its enlargement, known as splenomegaly, is a common reason for a noticeable protrusion in that area. Understanding what is the bulge on the left side of the stomach below the ribs is crucial for identifying potential health concerns, as causes range from minor issues to those requiring medical evaluation.

The human rib cage protects several vital organs, and on the left side, the primary occupant is the spleen. So, what organ is behind the left rib cage? The answer is more complex, as several other organs, including the stomach, pancreas, and left kidney, also reside in this region.

An estimated 1 in 10 adults will experience pain or discomfort in their upper left abdomen, an area that can be alarming due to its proximity to the heart. However, the organ located directly under your left ribcage is the spleen, and it plays a critical role in your body's immune system and blood filtration.

Over 50% of enlarged spleen cases show no noticeable symptoms, making a self-assessment challenging and unreliable. Learn about the key indicators to be aware of and the limitations of how to self check for an enlarged spleen, emphasizing when to seek professional medical advice.