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Discharge Instructions for Esophageal Varices

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.

Steps to Take

What to Eat

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.

Activity

You can drive and return to work when the doctor says it is okay.

Medications

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:

  • Take your medicine as advised. Do not change the amount or schedule.
  • Be aware of the side effects of your medicine. Tell your doctor if you have any.
  • Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medicine.
  • Do not share your prescription medicine.
  • Medicines can be harmful when mixed. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking more than one, including over the counter products and supplements.
  • Plan for refills.

Other Steps That May Help

Smoking irritates blood vessels. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to quit.

Follow-up

Your doctor will need to check on your progress. Be sure to go to all appointments.

Problems to Look Out For

Call the doctor if you are having a hard time managing this problem or you have:

  • Signs of infection, such as fever and chills
  • Been coughing up blood
  • Red, tarry, or very dark stools
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Lightheadedness
  • Rapid heartbeat or chest pain

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

RESOURCES:

American College of Gastroenterology
http://gi.org

American Gastroenterological Association
http://www.gastro.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Canadian Association of Gastroenterology
https://www.cag-acg.org

Canadian Liver Foundation
http://www.liver.ca

REFERENCES:

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