Portal Hypertension: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment **What is Portal Hypertension?** Portal hypertension is a medical condition characterized by elevated pressure in the portal venous system. The portal vein is a major vein that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. **Causes of Portal Hypertension:** The most common cause of portal hypertension is cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver. Other causes include: * Liver cancer * Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C * Blood clots in the portal vein * Tumors that block the flow of blood through the portal vein **Symptoms of Portal Hypertension:** The symptoms of portal hypertension can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Common symptoms include: * Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet * Yellowing of the skin (jaundice) * Abdominal pain and swelling * Nausea and vomiting * Fatigue and weakness **Complications of Portal Hypertension:** If left untreated, portal hypertension can lead to serious complications, including: * Bleeding from varices (enlarged veins) in the esophagus or stomach * Ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen) * Liver failure * Death **Treatment of Portal Hypertension:** The treatment of portal hypertension depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Treatment options may include: * Medications to reduce portal pressure, such as beta-blockers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) * Endoscopic procedures to treat varices, such as banding or sclerotherapy * Surgical interventions, such as shunt placement or portosystemic shunting * Liver transplantation in advanced cases **Frequently Asked Questions:** * What causes high pressure in the portal vein? * High pressure in the portal vein is often caused by cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver. * How is portal hypertension diagnosed? * Portal hypertension is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans. * What are the treatment options for portal hypertension? * Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.