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Esophageal varices are abnormally enlarged veins in the esophagus (the tube connecting the throat and stomach). They most often develop in people with advanced liver disease, especially cirrhosis. Why esophageal varices form When liver scarring blocks normal blood flow, pressure builds in the portal vein (portal hypertension). Blood is forced into smaller veins—such as those in the lower esophagus—that aren’t built to handle high pressure. These veins enlarge, can leak, and may rupture, causing life-threatening bleeding. Symptoms Varices usually don’t cause symptoms unless they bleed. Signs of bleeding include: Vomiting blood Black, tarry or bloody stools Lightheadedness or fainting from blood loss Loss of consciousness in severe cases People with liver disease may also have: Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes) Easy bruising or bleeding Ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen) Emergency: Bloody vomit or black/bloody stools require immediate medical care (call 911). Causes Cirrhosis from hepatitis, alcohol-related liver disease, fatty liver disease, or primary biliary cholangitis Blood clots in the portal or splenic vein Schistosomiasis (parasitic infection in certain regions) Risk factors for bleeding High portal vein pressure Large varices Red streaks or spots seen on endoscopy Severe cirrhosis or liver failure Continued alcohol use Previous variceal bleeding Complications Massive bleeding, shock, and death High risk of recurrent bleeding after a first episode Prevention & management Varices themselves can’t always be prevented, but bleeding risk can be reduced: Nonselective beta blockers (e.g., propranolol, nadolol) to lower portal pressure Endoscopic screening for people with cirrhosis; band ligation for high-risk varices Avoid alcohol Healthy diet and weight management Protect the liver: safe sex, avoid needle sharing, get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B Use chemicals and medicines carefully If you have liver disease, ask your healthcare professional about screening and preventive treatment for esophageal varices.

Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of lymphoma, a cancer that affects the lymphatic system—part of the body’s immune defense. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes, lymph vessels, the spleen, thymus, tonsils, adenoids and bone marrow. Hodgkin lymphoma (formerly called Hodgkin disease) can involve any of these areas and sometimes other organs. Lymphomas are broadly divided into Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma begins in B lymphocytes, which are germ-fighting white blood cells. It is highly treatable and often curable, especially when diagnosed early. Types of Hodgkin Lymphoma 1. Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma This is the most common type. It is defined by the presence of Reed–Sternberg cells in affected lymph nodes. Subtypes include: Nodular sclerosing Hodgkin lymphoma Mixed cellularity Hodgkin lymphoma Lymphocyte-depleted classic Hodgkin lymphoma Lymphocyte-rich classic Hodgkin lymphoma 2. Nodular Lymphocyte-Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma (NLPHL) A rarer form, characterized by so-called “popcorn cells.” It is often diagnosed at an early stage and may require less intensive treatment than classic Hodgkin lymphoma. Signs and Symptoms Common symptoms include: Swollen lymph nodes (neck, armpits or groin), usually painless Fever Persistent fatigue Drenching night sweats Unexplained weight loss Itchy skin When to See a Doctor Make an appointment with a healthcare professional if you notice persistent swollen lymph nodes or other symptoms that concern you. Early evaluation is important, as timely diagnosis greatly improves outcomes. Treatment Options Treatment depends on the type and stage of the disease and may include: Chemotherapy Radiation therapy Targeted therapy Immunotherapy Bone marrow (stem cell) transplant Clinical trials