How to Recognize Bleeding Varices

The portal vein is crucial to digestive organs such as the stomach and intestines. It is the pathway that blood uses to reach the liver. Scarring in this organ will create a blockage in the blood flow to the liver. This causes pressure to build up in the portal vein. This pressure is then transferred to blood vessels along the esophagus or stomach. This backed up blood travels through these blood vessels causing high pressure. These newly formed blood vessels, also known as varices have very thin walls. A varice can have a very wide section and also a narrow one. This can cause pressure to build up in the varice increasing the chances of rupture. They can form in the esophagus or stomach. They are often caused by cirrhosis that is the result of alcohol abuse, hepatitis, and other congenital liver conditions. Esophageal varices are dangerous in the sense that they do not cause symptoms unless they rupture and bleed. Bleeding varices are life threatening and must be addressed immediately to prevent shock or death. Below are some signs to look for if you suspect esophageal varices.

Instructions

• 1

  Notice vomiting of blood. Once a varice ruptures, the patient may vomit large amounts of blood.

• 2

  Keep in mind stool may appear black or tar-like.

• 3

  Blood pressure may drop as internal bleeding takes place thus causing the patient to feel lightheaded or dizzy.

• 4

  You may look pale in appearance.

• 5

  You may feel extremely thirsty.

• 6

  You may have decreased urination because of such low blood pressure.

• 7

  Although bleeding is often painless, you can easily go into shock from the loss of blood.