Esophageal varices :
Esophageal varices are the swollen or enlarged veins in the esophagus. They are commonly seen in patients with serious liver diseases. They are caused due to increased blood pressure in the portal vein that runs through the liver and other veins that branch from it. They do not exhibit any symptoms until they bleed or are not visible from the outside since they are deep inside the chest cavity where esophagus connects with the stomach. The rupture of varices results in symptoms like vomiting blood, blood in stools, pale complexion, and fatigue. They can be diagnosed only when the patient is examined by Gastroenterologist through upper endoscopy, and other tests like CT-scan, MRA, OR Doppler ultrasound. Treatment plans include medical management of cause, condition and variceal band ligation if necessary. They are most commonly found in persons with a history of liver diseases and cirrhosis and need early and regular intervention by a Gastroenterologist for better management and treatment of conditions without any fatal complication. |