Can someone die from bleeding esophageal varices?

Yes.: Esophageal varices are abnormally dilated veins within the wall of the esophagus that often arise in response to blockage of blood flow thru the liver (portal hypertension). These are prone to rupture, causing hematemesis (vomiting blood). This is a medical emergency, often requiring direct control of the bleeding +/- decompression of the liver.

Bleeding varices BAD: There is a mortality rate of 30-50% with the first episode of upper GI bleeding from esophageal varices. Two thirds of these patients die within 1 year. Most patients with varices have cirrhosis, 40% dying from associated medical problems. About a quarter to a third of cirrhosis patients bleed at least once from varices. Many therapeutic and preventative options exist--get to a GI doctor asap.

Possible: Esophageal varicose can bleed significantly, requiring intervention including endoscopic injection to surgical methods. Some require blood transfusions, and others can continue bleeding due to a lack of blood products required to develop a stable clot. The liver makes these products, and since the liver is damaged, it cannot keep up to provide these clotting factors.