Achalasia

Achalasia is a disorder of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It occurs when the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), fails to relax properly. This can make it difficult to swallow food and liquids, and can cause regurgitation or the feeling of food stuck in the throat.

Symptoms of achalasia may include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), regurgitation of food or liquids, chest pain, especially after eating, weight loss, and heartburn or chest pain.

The exact cause of achalasia is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to damage to the nerves that control the LES.

Achalasia is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and various tests such as an upper endoscopy, barium swallow, and esophageal manometry.

Treatment for achalasia may include medications to relax the LES, procedures to widen the LES, or surgery to remove the LES. The specific treatment plan will depend on the severity of symptoms and the individual’s overall health.

Achalasia can often be treated successfully, but it is not always possible to completely cure the condition. Ongoing treatment may be needed to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Achalasia is a rare condition, affecting about 1 in every 100,000 people.

There is no known way to prevent achalasia.

Achalasia can cause serious problems such as difficulty swallowing and malnutrition if left untreated. However, with appropriate treatment, the prognosis for people with achalasia is generally good.

It is possible for achalasia to recur after treatment, but this is not common. Your healthcare provider will closely monitor your condition and provide ongoing treatment as needed to help prevent recurrence.