Gastric varices

Gastric Varices

Gastric varices (pronounced: gas-trik vair-uh-sees) are abnormal, dilated blood vessels in the stomach caused by increased pressure in the veins that drain the stomach. They are a serious condition that can lead to life-threatening bleeding.

Etymology

The term "gastric" comes from the Greek word "gaster," meaning stomach, and "varices" is derived from the Latin word "varix," meaning swollen, twisted vein.

Definition

Gastric varices are a complication of portal hypertension, a condition that causes an increase in pressure within the portal vein. This vein carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. The increased pressure can cause veins in the stomach to enlarge, forming varices.

Symptoms

Symptoms of gastric varices may include abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black, tarry stools, and unexplained weight loss. However, many people with gastric varices don't experience symptoms until the varices bleed.

Diagnosis

Gastric varices are typically diagnosed through an endoscopy, a procedure that involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera down the throat to examine the digestive tract.

Treatment

Treatment for gastric varices aims to prevent bleeding, as bleeding varices can be life-threatening. Treatment options may include medications to reduce pressure in the portal vein, endoscopic therapy to stop bleeding, and in severe cases, surgery.

Related Terms

• Portal hypertension
• Endoscopy
• Esophageal varices
• Gastroenterology

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Gastric varices
• Wikipedia's article - Gastric varices

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