I'm feeling a bit confused about who to see for issues with erectile dysfunction. Should I be looking for a urologist or is an andrologist the right specialist? What's the actual difference between the two?
Mild splenomegaly (enlarged spleen) and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) can coexist, but it's unclear if the enlarged spleen is directly causing your digestive issues.
_Possible connections:_
1. *Splenic flexure syndrome*: An enlarged spleen can put pressure on the splenic flexure (a part of the colon), leading to digestive issues like bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movements.
2. *Immune system imbalance*: The spleen plays a role in immune function. An enlarged spleen might contribute to immune system imbalances, which could exacerbate IBS symptoms.
3. *Inflammation*: Splenomegaly can be associated with chronic inflammation, which might worsen IBS symptoms.
_However, it's essential to note:_
1. *IBS is a complex condition*: IBS has multiple factors contributing to its development, including gut motility, hypersensitivity, and psychological factors.
2. *Mild splenomegaly might not be the primary cause*: Your IBS symptoms might be unrelated to the enlarged spleen, or the spleen might be only one of several contributing factors.