What are abdominal varices and why do they occur?

Abdominal varices are dilated veins that occur as a result of increased pressure in the portal venous system, a condition known as portal hypertension, which is often caused by liver disease. When the liver is damaged or diseased, such as in cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis, it struggles to process blood flow efficiently. This resistance to blood flow leads to increased pressure in the portal vein, causing blood to seek alternative pathways to return to the heart.

These alternative pathways often involve the dilation of smaller veins, leading to varices, which can be most pronounced in the esophagus and stomach, but may also develop in the abdominal cavity. The presence of these varices indicates significant underlying issues with liver function and can pose serious health risks, including the risk of hemorrhage if the varices rupture. Understanding the relationship between portal hypertension and varices is crucial for managing patients with liver disease effectively.