Symptom 5: Enlarged Liver or Spleen
While an enlarged liver or spleen might not immediately present overt external symptoms, the internal repercussions can be substantial. Often, this enlargement is detected during routine medical check-ups or while diagnosing other conditions.
Both the liver and spleen play pivotal roles in our bodies. The liver, among its myriad functions, detoxifies harmful substances and produces vital proteins. The spleen, on the other hand, acts as a filter for blood, recycling old blood cells and storing platelets. Any enlargement of these organs suggests a deviation from the norm, potentially hindering their optimal functioning.
The correlation between MGUS and the enlargement of the liver or spleen is again attributed to the abnormal proteins. These proteins can accumulate in organs, causing inflammation and enlargement. As these organs enlarge, their ability to function efficiently can be compromised, leading to a series of health concerns.
Symptoms of an enlarged liver or spleen can vary. Individuals might experience pain or fullness in the upper abdomen, which can extend to the shoulder. There may also be a feeling of fullness even without eating, leading to a reduced appetite. On a broader scale, if these organs aren’t functioning optimally, it can lead to systemic effects – from fatigue to increased susceptibility to infections. (5)
