Budd-Chiari Syndrome is a rare liver disorder in which blood flow out of the liver is obstructed. This happens when the hepatic veins (the vessels that drain blood from the liver) become blocked, causing pressure to build up inside the liver. Over time, that pressure can damage liver tissue and impair its function.
Early on, Budd-Chiari Syndrome may not cause noticeable problems. As pressure in the liver rises, you may experience:
Blockage of liver veins can result from several factors:
If you're experiencing abdominal pain, swelling, fatigue, or other signs of Budd-Chiari Syndrome, don't wait. Schedule a consultation with our Cypress team at GastroDoxs for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Click here to book online or call us directly-let us help you take the next step toward better liver health and lasting relief.
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Budd-Chiari Syndrome occurs when one or more veins that drain blood from the liver become blocked, causing increased pressure in the liver. This can lead to abdominal pain, liver enlargement, fluid buildup, and, if untreated, liver damage or failure.
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to assess liver function and coagulation, along with imaging studies such as Doppler ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize blood flow in the hepatic veins and detect any blockages.
Yes. In mild or chronic cases, symptoms like fatigue, slight abdominal swelling, or discomfort may be subtle and easily attributed to other conditions, delaying diagnosis until the disease progresses.
Most cases are not directly inherited. However, genetic clotting disorders that increase the risk of blood clots-such as factor V Leiden mutation or protein C deficiency-can run in families and predispose individuals to Budd-Chiari Syndrome.
Certain cancers, especially those of the liver, pancreas, or blood (like leukemia), can press on or invade the hepatic veins, causing obstruction. Additionally, cancer can increase clotting tendency, further raising the risk of vein blockage.
Initial treatment usually involves anticoagulant medications to dissolve or prevent clots. If blood thinners are insufficient, interventional procedures-such as angioplasty with stenting or TIPS-may be performed to restore proper blood flow.
Medical treatment relies on medications like blood thinners and diuretics to manage clotting and fluid retention. Surgical or interventional treatments involve mechanically opening or bypassing blocked veins (e.g., angioplasty/stenting, TIPS) and, in severe cases, liver transplantation.
Yes. A low-salt diet can reduce fluid buildup, avoiding alcohol protects liver function, and maintaining a healthy weight and activity level supports overall liver health. Close monitoring and medication adherence are also key.
A transplant is considered when all other treatments fail to relieve obstruction or when irreversible liver failure develops. It offers the best chance for long-term survival in advanced cases.
GastroDoxs in Cypress specializes in liver conditions, including Budd-Chiari Syndrome. We offer same-day evaluations, personalized treatment plans, interventional procedures, and ongoing support to guide you through every step of care.
