Gastric piles is a term sometimes incorrectly used to refer to gastric varices, which are enlarged veins in the stomach lining. These veins become swollen due to increased pressure in the portal vein system, often a consequence of liver cirrhosis or other conditions that impede normal blood flow through the liver, such as portal hypertension. Gastric varices are similar to esophageal varices but are located in the stomach rather than the esophagus. Unlike hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the rectum or anus often referred to as "piles," gastric varices are not related to bowel movements and can pose a serious health risk if they bleed. The main cause of gastric varices is portal hypertension, which results from liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, leading to increased blood pressure in the portal vein and causing veins in the stomach to swell and potentially rupture. This rupture can lead to severe bleeding, presenting as vomiting of blood (hematemesis) or black, tarry stools (melena). The bleeding can be life-threatening and requires urgent medical attention.
Complications of untreated gastric varices include significant blood loss, shock, and even death if the bleeding is not controlled. Other complications can arise from treatments, such as infections, rebleeding, or adverse reactions to medications used to manage portal hypertension. Treatment often involves endoscopic procedures to directly treat the varices, medications to reduce portal pressure, or surgery in severe cases. Regular monitoring and management of the underlying liver condition are crucial to prevent the development or worsening of gastric varices.
