if you're concerned about having surgery why not get a second opinion? doctors don't take it personally when patients do that. and it might give you peace of mind to hear another doctor's take on your situation. your doctor can explain better than anyone what it means that your spleen is swollen (inflamed) and has nodules on it because he or she has seen the films (such as the results of an ultrasound exam ct scan or mri) and lab results. i'd suggest you schedule another appointment and take a written list of questions. your doctor will be happy to explain exactly what's going on and why he or she wants to remove your spleen (an operation that is called " splenectomy "). people can live normal lives without a spleen. ask you doctor about possible complications from the surgery. it should not "slow you down " though it's true people without a spleen are somewhat more susceptible to develop infections like the flu. your doctor can explain what it will be like to live without a spleen. best of luck to you!
low platelets doctor want to take spleen out. is there an alternative? steroids are not working. platelets fluctuate between 24 000 to 60 000 for the past year. my spleen is swollen with nodes on it also. steroids are only working for a couple days then count goes back down. they want to take my spleen out. i'm 35 and mother of 16 2 5 yr old scared this will slow me down more.! should i try holistic approach and why would my spleen be swollen.