Varices Varicose Veins Of The Esophagus

The more a person researches the subject of varicose veins, the more amazed they become by the seemingly infinite manifestations the condition can take on. You can read research reports about varicose veins and their effect on the vagina. Or you can view extensive research that delves into the phenomenon of varicose veins in the eyelids, a most painful proposition. One of the most interesting, and potentially serious, forms of varicose veins takes place in the esophagus.

The varicose veins that appear in the esophagus are actually very similar to the ones we’re most familiar with, the ones that show up on your legs. Both conditions share the symptoms of twisted veins, sometimes bulging and/or dilated. The inhibiting of the blood flow comes about while the venous system exerts increased pressure.

As we look more deeply into the esophagus, we can observe that these same high pressures in the venous system can be contributory to bringing about varicose veins of the esophagus. Where the esophagus is concerned, this would involve the portal venous system. This system drains into the liver from within the intestinal tract. When the venous pressure goes up, blood has to be diverted from other chores within the body, and sent to the varices of the esophagus.

Although it is possible for varices to show up in the rectum, or even in the stomach, it is the tendency of varices to bleed that makes them so worrying. When the tension on the walls of the varices pushes the walls to their limit, a rupture may occur, adding further complications to an already complex scenario. At this point an endoscopy might be utilized to precisely locate the site of the rupture so it can be determined where the blood is coming from. Once this site is located, a chemical irritant is then injected into the varices to solidify them and leave it to the body to reabsorb the tissue.

The injection method is not the only therapy available in this type of situation. You should be aware of variceal banding. With this procedure, an endoscope is used to place a very small but durable band around the varicose vein itself. Having been cut off from blood flow the varicose vein will cease to function at all and eventually it will be broken down and reabsorbed.

Once this is put into motion the lining of the esophagus, previously damaged, will gradually begin to heal.

You might be pondering whether or not this would be a painful procedure? Most patients report that, instead of pain during the procedure they more likely experienced some level of difficulty swallowing following a banding (single or multiple) procedure. This could be owing to the space taken up in the esophagus by the actual bands. It’s been found that avoiding dense food matter like meat can help to mitigate this side-effect. This abstinence need last no longer than two or three days after the procedure has taken place. Be gentle with your digestive tract for a few days to give everything the chance to heal.

Now that you know more about the method of banding a varicose vein, you can make a more-informed decision if you’re called upon to do so.

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