I80-I89: Diseases of veins, lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, not elsewhere classified
I85: Oesophageal varices
Oesophageal varices are large, swollen blood vessels that occur in the lower part of the esophagus, the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. They are usually caused by high blood pressure in the portal vein, the large vein that brings blood to the liver from the intestines, a condition most commonly related to liver diseases such as cirrhosis. This pressure builds up and causes blood to back up into other smaller vessels, such as those in your esophagus, leading to varices. Common symptoms can include vomiting blood, black, tarry or bloody stools, and lightheadedness, which occur when the varices tear or rupture. Without warning signs, these varices can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening bleeding. While esophageal varices themselves do not cause pain, they are indicative of a serious underlying liver problem which needs to be managed to prevent further complications.
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