Esophageal varices: Causes and Treatments Esophageal varices are

Esophageal Varices : Causes and Treatments Esophageal varices are abnormally enlarged veins located in the lower part of the esophagus , typically resulting from increased pressure in the portal vein system. This condition is most commonly associated with liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, which impede normal blood flow through the liver. Esophageal varices describe dilated submucosal veins of the esophagus , and are an important portosystemic collateral pathway. They are considered distinct from gastric varices , which are less common. Epidemiology Esophageal varices are present i... Esophageal varices are caused by Portal hypertension The portal vein is the large vein that brings blood to the liver from the intestines and other abdominal organs such as the spleen, pancreas, and gallbladder. High blood pressure in the portal vein is called portal hypertension. The most common cause of portal hypertension in high-resource countries is liver scarring due to cirrhosis. Esophageal varices are large or swollen blood vessels in the esophagus . Here, learn all about this health issue, including its symptoms and causes.