General Information About Achalasia
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a swallowing function disorder caused by the esophagus losing its contraction reflex (peristalsis) that pushes food into the stomach and the failure of the muscle valve (sphincter) at the entrance of the stomach to relax.
It develops as a result of the nerve cells (ganglia) controlling the esophageal muscles becoming damaged and depleted for an unknown reason (thought to be of autoimmune or viral origin).
A feeling of food getting stuck when swallowing solid and liquid foods, regurgitation of undigested food into the mouth after eating, pain behind the breastbone, and involuntary weight loss.
In reflux, stomach acid escapes upwards, while in achalasia, food accumulates in the esophagus because it cannot descend into the stomach. Achalasia patients get no benefit at all from reflux medications.
Endoscopy reveals that the stomach valve has narrowed. For a definitive diagnosis, a 'Manometry' test, which measures the pressure of the esophageal muscles, and a barium swallow X-ray are used.
The aim of the treatment is to break the resistance of the stomach valve. Balloon dilation (endoscopic widening), Botox injections into the muscles, or POEM / Heller Myotomy surgeries, where the valve is cut using closed methods, are performed.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
