Portal hypertension
Current as of: April 15, 2020
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & W. Thomas London MD - Hepatology
Portal hypertensionPortal hypertension is high blood pressure in the veins that filter blood from the intestines through the liver (portal system of the liver). It may cause complications such as fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity (ascites) or enlarged veins (varices) in the esophagus or stomach. Cirrhosis is a process that destroys the liver. In the United States, cirrhosis is the most common cause of portal hypertension. Normally, blood from the spleen and intestines is filtered through the liver by way of the portal vein. But when the buildup of scar tissue caused by cirrhosis reduces the flow of blood through the liver, pressure may build up in the portal vein. This causes portal hypertension. Portal hypertension is different from the high blood pressure (systemic hypertension) that many people develop as they get older. Current as of: April 15, 2020 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & W. Thomas London MD - Hepatology |
Search the
Healthwise Knowledgebase This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2020 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. |