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Achalasia
Medical Questions » Achalasia
| Name: Achalasia |
| Also known as: Oesophageal Achalasia |
| Loss of muscle contractions in the lower two thirds of the gullet (oesophagus). |
Causes of Achalasia
Degeneration of the nerves supplying the muscles of the oesophagus that starts between 25 and 60 years of age. |
Symptoms of Achalasia
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. |
Tests for Achalasia
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. |
Treatment for Achalasia
Dilation of the narrowed section of the oesophagus using a balloon, medications (eg. nifedipine) that relax the lower oesophagus, and surgery.
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Complications of Achalasia of its treatment
Inhalation of regurgitated food can cause cough, lung damage and infections. Increased risk of cancer in the oesophagus. |
Likely Outcome of Achalasia
Most cases well managed by appropriate treatment. |
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