Ascites
Fluid can accumulate in the abdomen when portal pressure and liver dysfunction disrupt normal fluid balance.
Liver Disease Complications
Why do ascites and varices happen in portal hypertension?
In advanced liver disease, elevated portal pressure and altered circulation can lead to fluid accumulation and enlarged collateral veins that may bleed.
The complication helps define the treatment.
Varices
Collateral veins can enlarge in the esophagus, stomach or elsewhere and may bleed.
Urgent evaluation: vomiting blood, black stools, fainting, severe confusion or rapidly worsening illness require emergency care.
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