Definition: Stretched veins in the esophagus that occur when the liver is not working properly. If the veins burst, the bleeding can cause death.
Pronunciation: eh-saw-fuh-JEE-ul VAIR-uh-seez
Esophageal Varices
By Sharon Gillson, About.com
Updated October 22, 2007
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
Explore Heartburn / GERD
Must Reads
About.com Special Features
Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >
Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >
Also from About.com:
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.