Hypersplenism: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Hypersplenism?
A hematologist (a blood doctor) often treats hypersplenism. A gastroenterologist or hepatologist (a liver doctor) may help when liver disease is the cause. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is hypersplenism?
Hypersplenism is an overactive spleen. The spleen is an organ in the upper left side of your abdomen, or belly. The spleen is also part of your lymphatic system, which fights infection and keeps your body fluids in balance. It helps filter old and damaged cells from your blood. If your spleen is overactive, it removes blood cells too early and too quickly.
An overactive spleen is often, but not always, enlarged. The spleen also helps your body fight infections, so problems with the spleen can make you more likely to get infections.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hypersplenism include:
- An enlarged spleen.
- A low level of one or more types of blood cells.
- Feeling full too soon after eating.
- Stomach pain on the left side.
An enlarged spleen can also cause hiccups, being unable to eat a large meal, and pain in the upper left side of the belly. There are usually no symptoms from an enlarged spleen.
Causes and who gets it
Common causes of hypersplenism include cirrhosis, which is advanced liver disease, and lymphoma. Malaria and tuberculosis are also common causes. Various connective tissue and inflammatory diseases can cause it too.
A spleen can also swell because of blood diseases, infections, liver diseases, or cancer. In rare cases, an injury can rupture the spleen. A swollen spleen is more at risk of damage in an injury.
How doctors diagnose it
For an enlarged spleen, the provider asks about your symptoms and medical history. The provider feels and taps along the upper left part of your belly, just under the rib cage. Tests may include an ultrasound or CT scan of the belly. These are pictures of the inside of the body. Blood tests may include a complete blood count and tests of your liver function.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause of the enlarged spleen. If you have an enlarged spleen, your provider may advise you to avoid contact sports.
If the spleen is too damaged, you might need surgery to remove it. You can live without a spleen, and other organs such as the liver take over some of its work. Without a spleen, however, your body loses some of its ability to fight infections.
When to see a doctor
Your provider will tell you what else you need to do to take care of yourself and any medical condition.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you faint, have trouble breathing, have bleeding that will not stop, or have severe belly pain, including pain that gets worse when you take a deep breath.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. This kind of doctor can order first blood tests and scans. They can also look for causes such as liver disease and help you reach a blood doctor or other specialist.
Common questions
Is hypersplenism the same as an enlarged spleen?
No, because an overactive spleen is often, but not always, enlarged. An enlarged spleen is called splenomegaly.
What causes hypersplenism?
Common causes include cirrhosis, lymphoma, malaria, tuberculosis, and various connective tissue and inflammatory diseases.
Can you live without a spleen?
Yes, you can live without a spleen. Your body will lose some of its ability to fight infections without it.
Does hypersplenism raise the risk of infection?
It can, because problems with the spleen can make you more likely to develop infections. The spleen helps your body fight infections.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
