Final answer:
Bleeding esophageal varices are a medical emergency due to the risk of life-threatening hemorrhage. Their management focuses on stopping the bleeding through endoscopic techniques or surgeries.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bleeding esophageal varices are considered a medical emergency because they can result in life-threatening hemorrhage. Esophageal varices are swollen veins in the lower part of the esophagus, commonly caused by liver cirrhosis. When these varices rupture, they can lead to severe bleeding, which if not managed promptly, can be fatal.
The management of bleeding esophageal varices differs from other gastrointestinal bleeding scenarios because of the high risk of re-bleeding and the need for specific interventions. In addition to providing supportive care, such as fluid resuscitation and blood transfusion, the primary goal in managing bleeding esophageal varices is to stop the bleeding. This typically involves endoscopic techniques, such as band ligation or sclerotherapy, to stop or reduce the blood flow to the varices. In some cases, more invasive procedures like transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or surgery may be necessary to control the bleeding and prevent recurrence.