What is Achalasia?

Description of the disease

Achalasia is a disorder of the esophagus where the lower esophageal sphincter does not relax properly, making it difficult for food to pass into the stomach.

Classification

• Ideopathic achalasia
• Secondary achalasia
• Chagas disease-related achalasia

Symptoms

• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
• Regurgitation (bringing food back up from the esophagus)
• Chest pain
• Weight loss

Causes

The causes of achalasia are not fully understood, but may involve the nervous system or impaired esophageal muscle activity.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of achalasia may involve X-rays, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), and manometry.

Treatment

Treatment of achalasia may include medication, botulinum toxin injection, endoscopic dilation of the sphincter, or surgical interventions.

Prevention

Since the causes of achalasia are not fully understood, specific prevention methods are not available, but a healthy lifestyle and proper diet may reduce the risk of this condition.

Physician

Achalasia is diagnosed and treated by a gastroenterologist.