What Is Autoimmune Hepatitis & Why Is It So Serious?

Esophageal Varices

Photo Credit: WebMD

Esophageal varices, swollen veins in the esophagus, are another complication of autoimmune hepatitis. They very much resemble varicose veins. These veins occur in the lining of the esophagus and are a complication of cirrhosis of the liver and high blood pressure in the portal vein. They happen because the pressure in the portal vein forces blood into the blood vessels around it. This includes blood vessels in the esophagus, the tube that links the patient's mouth to their stomach. Varices in the esophagus can also be caused by blood clots in the portal vein. If the pressure in these veins becomes very high, they can rupture and bleed. When that happens, the patient will either vomit blood or swallow the blood, which will then turn their stool tarry and black. As with a bleed in the intestine, rupture of the esophageal varices is a medical emergency.

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