I had my spleen removed some time ago following an accident. Does it affect my endurance performance and what do I need to bear in mind when training?
Answer from Dr Merkl:
The spleen's tasks are Circulatory regulation, blood formation and breakdown and defence regulation in the event of infections. Its loss is largely accepted by the organism without consequences, as its functions are largely taken over by other organs. Nevertheless, removal of the spleen means that the immune defence is reduced by around a third. This can lead to the body being less able to adapt to high levels of stress. I therefore advise cyclists to avoid high levels of stress in quick succession and to take care to ensure sufficient recovery times.
