What is Asplenia? Asplenia is the name given to the absence of the Spleen.

The spleen is a small organ weighing around 150 grams, and although it is not often talked about, it is of great importance to our body. It, together with the Lymph nodes and the Thymus, forms the Lymphatic system, and its main function is the venous drainage of our body and the creation of antibodies to strengthen our immune system.

Therefore, we can conclude that a person with Asplenia has more difficulty in blood regeneration, as the absence of the spleen compromises the process of cleaning the most degraded lymphocytes, incapable of carrying oxygen throughout the body, and is also more exposed to respiratory viruses and pneumonia.

This condition has been seen as an evolution of the human species, as the number of births of asplenics has been increasing in recent decades, and according to studies carried out in the 1980s by Harry Jacob, a researcher at the University of Minnesota Medical School who analysed children born without a spleen, it is clear that the absence of the spleen is not a big deal, as the other organs that accompany it can perform the same function.

However, there are some precautions to be taken when it comes to the daily life of an asplenic, especially when we are talking about a daily routine that includes physical exercise:

Asplenics are more likely to have a weaker immune system, so they should avoid exercising in poorly ventilated places and areas where ventilation is provided artificially, i.e. air conditioning. Furthermore, asplenics should avoid exercising where their bodies are exposed to a great deal of stress, as well as high-intensity cardiovascular training lasting more than 30 minutes (in the case of indoor cycling, avoid periods of prolonged sprints), as this can cause their blood pressure to increase without regenerating oxygen in the blood.

Furthermore, it is essential that asplenics drink at least 2.5 litres of water, and increase their intake during their training.

Therefore, asplenics can live with this condition and lead a healthy life as long as they are monitored regularly and have their blood oxygen levels monitored.Therefore, when accompanied by your personal trainer, it is important that you inform them of your condition so that they can take it into account when planning and implementing your training.

Renato Machado