Final answer:
Esophageal varices are caused by portal hypertension due to liver cirrhosis, leading to increased venous pressure and swollen esophageal veins.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pathological process causing esophageal varices is commonly linked to portal hypertension, usually because of cirrhosis of the liver. Scarring in the liver leads to difficulty in blood flow from the intestines through the liver, causing blood to pool. This increased pressure is reflected back into the venous system, contributing to the development of swollen, varicose veins in the esophagus, known as esophageal varices. These are analogous to varicose veins that commonly occur in the legs, where defective valves allow blood to accumulate and veins to bulge. Preventative and treatment options for cardiovascular conditions leading to esophageal varices include lifestyle modifications, medication, or surgical intervention, such as insertion of shunts to divert blood flow, reducing pressure on the esophageal veins.