Esophageal varices are swollen veins in the esophagus. These veins can leak or break. Some can cause severe bleeding problems.
Medicine may be given to lower the risk of bleeding or slow bleeding. Some people may need surgery.
Veins swell because of problems in the liver. Avoid alcohol to keep the liver healthy and decrease swelling.
You should also eat a healthful diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
You can drive and return to work when the doctor says it is okay.
Medicine may be given to decrease pressure on the veins.
Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. It may also be present in combination medicines. NSAIDs can raise the risk of bleeding.
When taking medicine:
Smoking irritates blood vessels. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to quit.
Your doctor will need to check on your progress. Be sure to go to all appointments.
Call the doctor if you are having a hard time managing this problem or you have:
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.
American College of Gastroenterology
http://gi.org
American Gastroenterological Association
http://www.gastro.org
Canadian Association of Gastroenterology
https://www.cag-acg.org
Canadian Liver Foundation
http://www.liver.ca
Esophageal varices. EBSCO Nursing Reference Center website. Available at: https://www.ebscohost.com/nursing/products/nursing-reference-center. Accessed June 2, 2021.
Gastric varices. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/gastric-varices. Accessed June 2, 2021.
Last reviewed March 2021 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Marcin Chwistek, MD