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Gastric Varices
Gastric varices are swollen veins in the stomach lining caused by portal hypertension. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott provides diagnosis and treatment-from medications and dietary guidance to advanced endoscopic and minimally invasive procedures-ensuring optimal outcomes and peace of mind.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Liver disease (cirrhosis leading to increased portal pressure)
Blocked portal veins (blood clots or tumors)
Heavy alcohol use (damages liver and weakens vein walls)
Hepatitis B or C (chronic liver injury over time)
Fatty liver disease (inflammation adds pressure in liver veins)
Signs and Symptoms
Vomiting blood (hematemesis)
Black or tarry stools (melena)
Dizziness or drop in blood pressure
Fullness or pain in the upper abdomen
Fatigue or weakness from blood loss (anemia)
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Gastric Varices
At GastroDoxs, Dr. Scott follows a clear plan to diagnose gastric varices:
Health History and Exam
He reviews your liver health, alcohol use, and symptoms to understand your condition.
Lab Tests
These tests evaluate liver function, blood clotting, and anemia.
Imaging
Ultrasound or CT scans help visualize the portal veins and assess for varices.
Endoscopy
A small scope allows Dr. Scott to see the gastric varices directly, and he may also check for esophageal varices and involvement of the left gastric vein.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for gastric varices.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Eat less salt - Lowers pressure in liver veins
Avoid alcohol - Even small amounts can make things worse
Eat well - Fiber helps digestion and gut health
2. Medications
Beta blockers - Lower pressure in the portal vein
Vasoconstrictors (e.g., octreotide) - Help slow down bleeding
Lactulose or rifaximin - Help remove toxins in people with liver disease
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) - Tiny bands close off bleeding veins
Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) - A stent that redirects blood flow
Balloon-Occluded Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration (BRTO) - A balloon seals off varices to prevent bleeding
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes gastric varices?
Portal hypertension-often from cirrhosis, clots or tumors in the portal vein, hepatitis B/C, alcohol-related liver damage, or fatty liver disease-forces blood into smaller stomach veins, causing them to swell.
Are gastric varices dangerous?
Yes. They can rupture and bleed heavily, leading to anemia, shock, or life-threatening complications. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential.
How are gastric varices diagnosed?
Dr. Scott evaluates your history, orders lab tests (liver function, clotting, blood count), uses imaging (ultrasound or CT) to view portal veins, and performs an endoscopy to see varices directly.
Can diet help manage gastric varices?
A low-salt diet reduces pressure in liver veins and helps prevent fluid retention, but it cannot reverse existing varices. It's part of a broader management plan.
What is the ICD-10 code for gastric varices?
The official medical billing code for gastric varices is K76.6.
What treatment options are available?
Treatment may include non-selective beta blockers, vasoconstrictors like octreotide, endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL), TIPS, or BRTO, tailored to the severity of your condition.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover endoscopy, TIPS, medications, and related procedures. Our team will verify your benefits and guide you through the process.
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