Esophageal Varices

Esophageal varices is actually a serious condition, and it might lead to life-threatening complications when not managed.

Esophageal varices

Esophageal varices occur when the veins in the lining of the esophagus are enlarged and swollen.

Esophageal varices are very common in people with liver cirrhosis and

Causes of esophageal varices

• Liver cirrhosis will cause the bloodstream to the liver to be obstructed, and that, in turn, raises the pressure in the portal vein that transfers blood to the liver, which will lead to portal hypertension. As a result, the blood will look for other pathways to move, like in the small veins in the bottom of the esophagus, and that causes esophageal varices.
• A blood clot in the portal vein.
• Schistosomiasis, which is a parasitic infection.

Symptoms of esophageal varices

Typically, esophageal varices don’t cause symptoms unless they bleed due to the rupture of the walls of the veins, which causes:

• Large amounts of blood in the vomit.
• The stools are bloody or black.
• Paleness, dizziness, and lightheadedness.
• In severe cases, loss of consciousness.
• Esophageal varices could cause severe bleeding that might be life-threatening.

Diagnosis of esophageal varices

• Upper endoscopy.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of esophageal varices

• Medications.
• There are specific procedures to stop or prevent the bleeding.