Spleen

If one had a swollen spleen, what would it feel like? I've 'felt' something in my abdomen (not always on spleen side, but often), nothing painful, just an irritation for a moment or two that passes. The MDs did the whole feel/tap/listen to the abdomen and nothing... Would I know I had a swollen spleen/liver?

[farfromperfect]

Hey jag.  I have been away for a while.  Have you tested yet?  

[Jaguar83]

Got it, thanks, FFP. The docs didn't think anything was wrong with a routine checkup. I've tested negative ELISA at 5 weeks. I've tested negative 10 weeks with one brand of rapid home self kit and 8 weeks negative with another (both non FDA approved)....

[farfromperfect]

Also, I don't know if this helps or not but I remember a post on the Doctors forum that mentioned a swollen spleen.  The Doctor made the comment that he didn't understand how the poster knew that his spleen was swollen without a diagnosis from a doctor.  I don't have the link to that as it was a long time ago that I read it.  Hope that helps.  

[farfromperfect]

Sounds like you are home free brother.  What did the doctor say about your patichiae?  What do yours look like?  

[Jaguar83]

I wish I could believe that, my friend, if not for my strange 'symptoms' (which I know mean nothing in determing HIV infection). The MDs told me not to worry about my tongue (they weren't even convinced it was GT), nor about my 'petechiae' (if thats what they are). I still notice some more, the more I look (around ~15 total, mainly arms, abdomen). This sucks.

[Jaguar83]

Hoping that I have not caught a subtype that seroconverts late....2 more weeks and I promise I will breath easier.

[farfromperfect]

Yes it does suck.  This has been the worst 5 months of my life.  I am not myself anymore.  Everyone I know tells me that.  I hate this.  I don't know if I will ever be normal again.  

[Jaguar83]

Though you're out of the clear....I'm not yet...

[Teak]

I've had an enlarged spleen for years, since having hepatitis. It's still enlarged from having histo. There is no way you can tell if your spleen is enlarged without being examined by a physician. Nice thing about it, if it causes trouble they can just remove it.

[kiddynamite]

Why is there concern about the spleen?  Is it related to hiv?

[Jaguar83]

On the topic, I just am wondering if the general physical covers that...with the stethoscope breathing, the tap abdomen in the area, etc...no trouble eating my fill on my part, hungry when not worried about this of course. No real pain (tried breathing in a maximum breath of air many times and leaning in that direction). the docs didn't see too much wrong in that dept.

[Teak]

When the doctor palpates your liver he also palpates your spleen. Of course that is if you have a spleen.