Esophageal Varices

Esophageal Varices are dilated blood vessels that can be found in the wall of the esophagus. This condition is usually caused by portal hypertension, which is a consequence of chronic liver disease. These blood vessels are not symptomatic unless they rupture which could potentially be a life-threatening condition. If they rupture, they can cause the patient to vomit blood, notice bloody stool, feel dizzy or even collapse. This is a medical emergency that needs prompt evaluation and treatment.

In the case of severe liver disease, your doctor might advise you to consider a liver transplant.
  • Symptoms
  • Throwing up

    • Blood in vomit

    common

    Black stool

    or Bleeding from anus

    • Painless

    common

    Fatigue

    common

    Confusion

    or Fainting

    Low blood pressure

    or Irregular heartbeat

    or Rapid heart rate

    or Dizziness

    Pale inner surface of eyelids

    or Unusual lightness of skin color

  • Risk factors
  • Alcohol consumption

    Liver cirrhosis

    or Viral infection causing liver inflammation and damage

    History of hemochromatosis

    History of wilson's disease

  • Treatment
  • The main aim of treating esophageal varices is to stop the bleeding and protect the lungs from filling with blood. In addition, antibiotics are also given to prevent bacteria from going into your bloodstream and causing infection. The bleeding can be stopped using different methods including banding, sclerotherapy, and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting (TIPS).
  • Recommended specialist
  • If you have Esophageal Varices, then visit a gastroenterologist as soon as possible.

    Contact a

    Gastroenterologist

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