Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs Esophageal varicesUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewEsophageal varices usually develop when blood flow to the liver is blocked. They often occur in people with advanced liver disease. SymptomsUsually there are no symptoms unless they bleed. Symptoms of bleeding esophageal varices include vomiting blood, tarry or bloody stools, and, in severe cases, shock. TreatmentsTreatments include beta blockers, medical procedures to stop bleeding, and liver transplant. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use