Definition:
Esophageal varices are very dilated sub-mucosal veins located in the esophagus. Most often, these are a consequence of a portal hypertension similar to that of cirrhosis. Patients having esophageal varices have a very strong tendency to suffer from bleeding.
Diagnosis:
Esophageal varices are often diagnosed through administration of an endoscopy or looking inside the affected area of the esophagus through an medical equipment called endoscope.
Treatment:
Immediate treatments for bleeding due to esophageal varices include stopping the loss of blood, appropriate using of antibiotics in cases of infection. Endoscopy is also considered a very effective treatment. It may be done through different approaches like ligation of the esophageal varices or banding or can be done by sclerotherapy. Balloon tamponades are also applied in cases of refractory bleeding.
Symptoms and Signs:
There is no direct symptom associated to Esophageal varices although bleeding is very common and pain in the esophagus when swallowing.
Causes:
The most common known factor affecting or resulting to Esophageal varices is an immediate increase in the pressure, applied directly or indirectly, of the veins of the esophagus which may impede in the normal flow of blood in the area causing it to become swollen.
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