Bleeding esophageal varices

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Digestive system

Liver blood supply

• Vomiting
• Vomiting blood
• Black, tarry stools
• Bloody stools
• Decreased urine output
• Symptoms of chronic liver disease (such as cirrhosis)
• Excessive thirst
• Paleness
• Light-headedness

Physical examination:

• Signs of chronic liver disease or cirrhosis
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heart rate
• Bloody or black stool on rectal exam

Tests to determine where the bleeding is coming from and detect active bleeding include the insertion of a tube through the nose and down into the stomach to look for signs of bleeding.The tube is known as a nasogastric or "NG" tube. Tests to visualize the varices include EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy).

Review Date: 05/04/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.