A 40-year-old member asked:
Which treatment works the best and fastest for esophageal varices?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Elizabeth Yenanswered
Pediatric Gastroenterology 22 years experience
Depends: Esophageal varices are a complication of portal hypertension, a condition where the pressure in the vascular system of the GI tract becomes very elevated, usually due to liver disease. The greatest risk of having varices is life-threatening bleeding. If you have never bled before, a medication called Nadolol is effective to prevent bleeding. Otherwise, endoscopic banding is the best approach.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Matt Malkinanswered
Anesthesiology 18 years experience
Depends: Best is to treat the liver failure, reducing the pressure that creates the varices. Can be done with medication, tips shunt or transplant. Bleeding varices can be banded using GI scope and medical treatments. Liver failure that has progressed to such a state has a high mortality risk if not treated. Alcohol, tobacco and drug use should stop immediately.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
A member asked:
What's the best treatment to get rid of esophageal varices?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Bac Nguyenanswered
Family Medicine 25 years experience
Liver transplant: Often esophageal varices are result of liver diseases/cirrhosis. There are surgical procedures such as shunts, clipping/tying them off etc..But the best treatment is treating the cirrhosis...Namely a liver transplant. Consult doc. Good luck.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 18, 2018
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $19/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.