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Bleeding varices (internal bleeding)

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Bleeding varices (internal bleeding) - Cirrhosis for Patients

Cirrhosis

Esophageal Bleed

Large blood vessels (varices) in the food tube (esophagus) get bigger and bigger over time and can burst open. When this happens, you may vomit blood or notice your stool is black and tarry. If this happens, you should go to the emergency room immediately to get help and stop the bleeding.

The risk of bleeding from varices can be reduced by taking a particular type of blood pressure medicine (called beta-blockers) every day or by a special procedure in which tiny rubber bands are tied around the varices.

If you vomit blood or your stool turns black and tarry, you should go to the emergency room immediately. These are signs that varices may have begun to bleed. This can be life-threatening.

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