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What are esophageal varices? There are various medical conditions that are associated with liver disease such as esophageal varices. Esophageal varices are enlarged veins that develop in the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. They are like the varicose veins that some people develop in their legs but are much more dangerous. This condition is often due to cirrhosis. Cirrhosis, by creating scars in the liver, makes it more difficult for the blood to flow and blockage causes a high pressure in the veins of the esophagus and stomach. This can cause blood to back up and cause these enlarged veins to bypass the liver and attempt to reach the heart.
This is a significant concern because the blood vessels can rupture and lead to life-threatening bleeding. Esophageal varices are particularly dangerous because they do not cause symptoms until they bleed. When bleeding occurs it can lead to symptoms such as vomiting blood, and or passing black tarry stools. The bleeding could be significant and lead to shock.
It is diagnosed through an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which allows a healthcare provider to view inside of the esophagus, identify the varice, and stop the bleeding. The primary goal of treatment is to prevent variceal bleeding. These may involve medication, such as beta blockers to reduce portal hypertension which is an increase in blood pressure within the portal vein system, which carries blood from the testing to the liver.
Another way to treat the varices is with endoscopic interventions. In severe cases, there are interventions such as procedure called band ligation, which can cut off blood supply, or sclerotherapy, which involves injecting a solution directly into the affected veins. It is essential for individuals with liver disease and cirrhosis to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their condition and monitor for potential complications like esophageal varices.
