How long can you live with esopagal varices?

Esophageal varices are enlarged, tortuous veins in the esophagus. They are caused by increased pressure in the portal vein, which is the main vein that drains blood from the intestines and spleen. This increased pressure can be due to a number of conditions, including cirrhosis, liver cancer, and blood clots in the portal vein.

Esophageal varices can cause a number of symptoms, including:

* Bleeding: Esophageal varices can bleed, which can lead to anemia and even death.

* Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing due to the enlarged veins.

* Chest pain: Pain in the chest due to the pressure from the enlarged veins.

* Ascites: Fluid buildup in the abdomen.

* Edema: Swelling in the legs and feet.

The prognosis for people with esophageal varices depends on the underlying cause of the varices and the severity of the bleeding. With proper treatment, most people with esophageal varices can live for many years. However, the risk of bleeding is always present, and even a minor bleed can be life-threatening.

Treatment for esophageal varices may include:

* Medications: Medications to reduce the pressure in the portal vein and prevent bleeding.

* Endoscopic therapy: Procedures to stop the bleeding and prevent further bleeding.

* Surgery: Surgery to remove the varices and relieve the pressure in the portal vein.

The best way to prevent esophageal varices is to treat the underlying cause of the increased pressure in the portal vein. This may include:

* Treating cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a leading cause of esophageal varices. Treatment for cirrhosis may include medications, lifestyle changes, and liver transplantation.

* Preventing blood clots in the portal vein: Blood clots in the portal vein can block the flow of blood to the liver and increase the pressure in the portal vein. Preventing blood clots may include medications, lifestyle changes, and surgery.

* Managing liver cancer: Liver cancer can also cause esophageal varices. Treatment for liver cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.