Written and medically reviewed by: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD, General SurgeryLast updated:
Liver Disease — Variceal Bleeding
Portal hypertension emergency
In cirrhosis, enlarged esophageal or gastric varices can rupture with life-threatening bleeding—hematemesis, coffee-ground vomit, or melena. This is an emergency requiring hospital care and early endoscopy.
Educational schematic. Some structures may be simplified or emphasized for clarity; not an exact anatomical depiction.
© Cengiz Dibekoğlu — illustrative; not for unauthorized use
Figure summary
This educational figure shows: Variceal bleeding.
Key points
- Key note inside
How it presents
Sudden bloody vomit, black tarry stools, dizziness, low blood pressure. Known cirrhosis raises suspicion.
- Bloody or coffee-ground vomit
- Melena
- Dizziness / collapse
In the emergency department
IV access, resuscitation, vasoactive drugs, antibiotics when indicated, and urgent upper GI endoscopy with band ligation or sclerotherapy.
Prevention before bleeding
Surveillance endoscopy in cirrhosis; beta-blockers or prophylactic banding for high-risk varices.
- Key note inside
Recurrent or refractory bleeding
TIPS or transplant evaluation may be discussed when endoscopic control fails.
More chapters in this hub
Liver Cysts
Simple vs complex cysts — when observation is enough
Hydatid Cyst
Echinococcosis — albendazole, PAIR, and surgery
Liver Disease Diagnosis
How clinicians confirm the problem and stage the next steps
Liver Tumors
Tumors — explained for shared decision-making
Colorectal liver metastases
When colon or rectal cancer has spread to the liver
Liver Disease Treatment
How treatment options are matched to risk, stage, and goals
Fatty Liver Disease
MASLD / MASH (formerly NAFLD / NASH) and metabolic risk
Viral Hepatitis
Hepatitis B and C — chronic care
Liver Abscess
Fever, drainage, and antibiotics
FNH and Adenoma
Benign solid liver lesions
Liver Hemangioma
Common benign vascular tumor
Cirrhosis
Chronic injury and complications
Appointment / info
This page is for education. It is not medical advice and does not replace a visit with your physician.
Medical editor: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD · Last medically reviewed: August 2026 · English patient-education chapter.