Achalasia: The Mysterious Swallowing Disorder You Need to Know About

What Causes Achalasia?

Achalasia occurs when nerve cells in the esophagus are damaged or destroyed. This leads to two main problems: the muscle at the bottom of the esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) doesn't relax properly, and the esophagus loses its ability to squeeze food down. It's like having a door that won't open and a hallway that can't push things through.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common symptoms of achalasia are difficulty swallowing both solids and liquids, and regurgitation of undigested food. You might also experience chest pain, heartburn, and trouble burping. Some people lose weight because eating becomes challenging. These symptoms usually develop slowly over time, often taking years before a diagnosis is made.

Diagnosing Achalasia

Doctors use several tests to diagnose achalasia. The most important is a test called esophageal manometry, which measures pressure and muscle contractions in your esophagus. Other tests may include X-rays with contrast (barium swallow), endoscopy, and newer techniques like the Functional Lumen Imaging Probe (FLIP). These help rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

While achalasia is a challenging condition, early diagnosis and proper treatment can greatly improve quality of life for those affected.

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