varix

noun

var·​ix ˈver-iks 

ˈva-riks

plural varices ˈver-ə-ˌsēz 

ˈva-rə-

: an abnormally dilated or swollen blood or lymph vessel and especially a vein (as of the esophagus or stomach)

Sclerotherapy has become an accepted treatment for bleeding esophageal varices.

—The New England Journal of Medicine

variceal

ˌver-ə-ˈsē-əl 

ˌva-rə-ˈsē-əl

və-ˈri-sē-əl 

adjective

variceal bleeding

Examples of varix in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Bleeding varices can cause vomiting, low blood pressure, dizziness, and loss of consciousness—and can be fatal. —Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 17 Oct. 2024

Additionally, certain complications, such as varices or ascites, may require intervention with surgical procedures. —Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 17 Oct. 2024

Stage 4: Advanced liver disease causes cirrhosis, severe scarring of the liver, varices, ascites, internal bleeding, and other complications. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 22 July 2024

In the third stage, there is more septa and widespread fibrosis without cirrhosis; there is also varices (bleeding in the stomach, intestines, or esophagus). —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 22 July 2024

Esophageal Problems Some people can develop varices in the esophagus, which connects the throat to the stomach. —Dr. Roshini Raj, Health, 17 June 2024

Often caused by cirrhosis, esophageal varices develop when the liver can’t handle as much blood as normal because of scarring. —Shari Rudavsky, Indianapolis Star, 4 Apr. 2018

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Latin varic-, varix, probably derivative from the stem of varus "inflamed spot on the skin, pimple"; akin to Lithuanian vìras "tapeworm larva, pimple," Old High German werra "varicose vein," Old English wearr "callosity"

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

varix

noun

var·​ix ˈvar-iks 

plural varices ˈvar-ə-ˌsēz 

: an abnormally dilated and lengthened vein, artery, or lymph vessel

especially : varicose vein