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Portal Hypertension
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What is Portal Hypertension?
Portal Hypertension is a condition where the pressure in the portal vein — the blood vessel that carries blood from the intestines to the liver — becomes too high. This happens when blood flow through the liver is blocked or slowed down, usually because of liver damage such as cirrhosis or severe liver scarring.
When this pressure builds up, blood tries to find other pathways to flow back to the heart. These alternate pathways, called collateral vessels, are weak and can cause serious complications such as variceal bleeding, fluid buildup, and kidney problems.
Why Does Portal Hypertension Happen?
The most common cause of portal hypertension is cirrhosis, which occurs due to:
- Fatty liver disease (MASLD) – linked to obesity, diabetes, and unhealthy eating habits
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Chronic viral hepatitis (Hepatitis B or C)
- Autoimmune liver diseases
- Genetic liver conditions
As the liver becomes scarred and stiff, it becomes harder for blood to flow through, causing increased pressure in the portal vein.
Symptoms – What Should You Watch For?
In its early stages, portal hypertension may not cause noticeable symptoms. But as it progresses, you may experience:
- Swelling in the abdomen (ascites) due to fluid buildup
- Enlarged veins (varices) in the esophagus or stomach that can bleed easily
- Vomiting blood or passing black stools (signs of internal bleeding)
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss
- Confusion or memory problems (hepatic encephalopathy) due to toxins affecting the brain
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical care immediately to prevent life-threatening complications.
How is Portal Hypertension Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose portal hypertension through a combination of tests and procedures, including:
- Blood Tests – To check liver function and other related issues.
- Ultrasound or Doppler Imaging – To see blood flow in the portal vein.
- Endoscopy – To look for varices (enlarged veins) in the stomach or esophagus.
- CT Scan or MRI – For detailed images of the liver and surrounding structures.
- Liver Biopsy – To assess the extent of liver damage in some cases.
Early diagnosis helps in preventing serious complications like internal bleeding or organ failure.
How is Portal Hypertension Treated?
Though portal hypertension is a serious condition, early management can significantly improve outcomes. The goal is to control the pressure in the portal vein, treat complications, and protect the liver.
1. Lifestyle Changes
- Healthy diet – Low salt intake helps reduce fluid buildup.
- Weight management – Helps control fatty liver disease and other related conditions.
- Avoid alcohol – Alcohol worsens liver damage and increases portal pressure.
- Regular exercise – Improves overall health and helps prevent liver-related issues.
2. Medications
Doctors prescribe medicines to:
- Lower blood pressure in the portal vein
- Prevent variceal bleeding
- Manage fluid buildup (diuretics)
- Control infections and complications
3. Endoscopic Treatment
If enlarged veins (varices) are found, doctors may perform endoscopic banding or sclerotherapy to reduce the risk of bleeding. These are minimally invasive procedures done through the mouth.
4. Advanced Procedures
In more severe cases, Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) may be recommended. This procedure creates a new pathway for blood to flow through the liver, reducing portal pressure.
In extreme cases, where liver function is severely compromised, liver transplantation may be the only option.
Prevention – How Can You Reduce the Risk?
- Control diabetes and cholesterol levels
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
- Get vaccinated for hepatitis B
- Undergo regular liver health check-ups, especially if you have risk factors
Expert Care at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune
At Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, patients with portal hypertension receive expert care under the supervision of Dr. Tushar Madhav Madke, a renowned hepatologist and liver transplant specialist.
Dr. Madke has completed his MBBS and MD in Internal Medicine from TNMC & BYL Nair Hospital, Mumbai, followed by DM in Hepatology from the prestigious ILBS, New Delhi, where he trained under Padma Bhushan Prof. Shiv Kumar Sarin. He also gained hands-on experience in Transplant Hepatology at Dr. Rela Institute, Chennai and has worked as a consultant hepatologist at Midas Hospital, Nagpur, where he helped establish a liver transplant program.
With over 5 years of experience in hepatology and liver transplant care, Dr. Madke is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based, and compassionate treatment. He has published 10 research articles in international journals and actively participates in creating awareness about liver diseases like MASLD through non-profit initiatives.
Why Trust Dr. Tushar Madke?
✔ Advanced training in hepatology and liver transplantation
✔ Proven expertise in managing complex liver conditions
✔ Compassionate and patient-friendly approach
✔ Active research and awareness initiatives
✔ Currently serving at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, one of India’s leading multi-specialty hospitals
Take Action Early
Portal hypertension is a serious condition but with timely diagnosis, proper care, and lifestyle changes, it can be managed effectively. If you have liver disease, diabetes, obesity, or any related risk factors, don’t wait. Reach out to Dr. Tushar Madke at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune to safeguard your liver health and live a healthier life.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards better liver care.