Achalasia - Symptom, Treatment and cause of Achalasia

Achalasia Description

(Oesophageal Achalasia)

Loss of of muscle contractions in the lower two thirds of the gullet (oesophagus ).

Achalasia Cause

Degeneration .of the nerves supplying the muscles of the oesophagus that starts between 25 and 60 years of age.

Achalasia Symptom

Gradually worsening difficulty in swallowing that initially affects solids more than liquids, fullness and discomfort behind the breast bone (sternum), regurgitation of unswallowed food (particularly at night), weight loss and cough.

Investigation

Barium swallow X-ray diagnostic. Endoscopy (passing a flexible tube down the oesophagus) can further evaluate the severity of the disease and allow pressure measurements to be made in the oesophagus.

Achalasia Treatment

Dilation of the narrowed section of the oesophagus using a balloon, medications (eg. nifedipine) that relax the lower oesophagus, and surgery.

Complications

Inhalation of regurgitated food can cause cough, lung damage and infections. Increased risk of cancer in the oesophagus.

Prognosis of Achalasia

Most cases well managed by appropriate treatment.