complication

Oesophageal varices

varices are extremely sub- veins in the lower third of the . They are most often a consequence of portal , commonly due to . People with esophageal varices have a strong tendency to develop severe bleeding which when left untreated can be fatal. Esophageal varices are typically diagnosed through an esophagogastroduodenoscopy.

Underlined words are explained — tap any of them.

Symptoms — what it feels like

·vomiting blood, passing black stool

Causes — why it happens

·portal (high blood pressure in the portal vein and the associated blood in the , or liver-based, circulation)

How it's found

·Endoscopy

Complications

·Internal bleeding, hypovolemic shock,

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Plain-language summary adapted from Wikipedia. Not medical advice.