Portal vein hypertension (portal vein hypertension) is a disease that is associated with increased pressure in the veins that pass through the liver. The portal vein is one of the main veins that circulates blood through the liver, and its high pressure can lead to serious health consequences.
Portal venous hypertension is a common condition that affects many people, especially those who are overweight or have problems with alcohol. It can also be caused by certain medications, such as antidepressants or certain antibiotics. Increased portal vein pressure may occur due to blockage of blood flow through the hepatic veins, which is sometimes associated with an increase in the amount of blood in the liver.
One of the symptoms of portal venous hypertension is swelling in the abdomen. When the pressure in the portal vein increases, blood begins to accumulate more actively in the veins of the abdomen, which leads to swelling. This may manifest itself as an increase in abdominal volume, heaviness and pain in the abdominal area.
Another symptom of portal vein hypertension is indigestion, such as nausea and vomiting. With increased pressure in the portal vein, bile is actively released from the liver, which can irritate the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, causing nausea and vomiting.
Another symptom may be pain in the right side of the abdomen, most often occurring after eating. This pain may be due to the fact that increased pressure in the portal canal impedes the movement of bile to the intestines and causes irritation of the mucous membrane of the gallbladder and liver. Changes in heart rate and blood pressure, weight loss, and anemia (decreased hemoglobin levels in the blood) may also occur.
Various imaging techniques, such as abdominal ultrasound or computed tomography, are commonly used to diagnose portal vein hypertension. Treatment for portal hypertension may include lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery if necessary. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by reducing alcohol consumption and obesity, as well as following a diet, can help reduce the risk of developing hypertensive portal venous disease.