What Is Achalasia?

Achalasia is a condition affecting the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Normally, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes when swallowing, allowing food to enter the stomach.

In achalasia, this muscle does not relax properly. In addition, the normal muscle movements that push food down the esophagus may be reduced or absent. As a result, food and liquids may remain in the esophagus, causing difficulty in swallowing and other symptoms.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help improve swallowing and quality of life.

Symptoms of Achalasia

The symptoms of achalasia may develop gradually and can worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty swallowing solid food
• Difficulty swallowing liquids
• Feeling that food is stuck in the chest or throat
• Regurgitation of undigested food
• Chest discomfort or pain
• Heartburn-like symptoms
• Coughing, especially at night
• Unexplained weight loss
• Frequent choking while eating or drinking

If you experience persistent difficulty swallowing, it is important to consult a qualified gastroenterologist for proper evaluation.

What Causes Achalasia?

The exact cause of achalasia is not always known. The condition is associated with damage or loss of nerve cells that control the muscles of the esophagus.

This can affect the normal relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and interfere with the movement of food towards the stomach.

Achalasia can occur at different ages, and symptoms may sometimes be mistaken for acidity, GERD, or other digestive problems. Proper diagnosis is therefore essential.

How Is Achalasia Diagnosed?

A gastroenterologist may recommend different tests depending on the patient’s symptoms and medical condition.

Upper GI Endoscopy

Endoscopy allows the doctor to examine the esophagus and stomach using a flexible camera. It can help identify narrowing, obstruction, inflammation, and other possible causes of swallowing difficulty.

Barium Swallow Test

This imaging test helps evaluate the shape and movement of the esophagus during swallowing.

Esophageal Manometry

Manometry is an important test used to measure pressure and muscle function in the esophagus. It can help confirm the diagnosis of achalasia and identify the type of motility disorder.

Additional Evaluation

Further investigations may sometimes be required to rule out other conditions causing similar symptoms.

Achalasia Treatment Options

The goal of achalasia treatment is to improve the passage of food and liquids from the esophagus into the stomach. The treatment plan depends on factors such as the patient’s age, symptoms, overall health, and findings from diagnostic tests.

Treatment options may include:

Medical Management

Certain medicines may help relax the lower esophageal sphincter in selected patients. However, medication may not provide long-term relief for everyone.

Endoscopic Treatment

Endoscopic procedures may be used to improve the opening of the lower esophageal sphincter. Depending on the patient’s condition, appropriate therapeutic endoscopic options may be considered.

Balloon Dilatation

Pneumatic balloon dilatation is a procedure in which a specialized balloon is used to stretch the narrowed muscle area and improve swallowing.

Advanced Endoscopic Treatment

Modern therapeutic endoscopy has expanded treatment options for several esophageal disorders. Suitable patients may be evaluated for advanced endoscopic procedures based on clinical assessment and available facilities.

Surgical Treatment

In some cases, surgery may be recommended. A specialist can guide patients regarding the most appropriate treatment option.

Why Early Consultation Is Important

Untreated achalasia can lead to persistent swallowing problems, poor nutrition, weight loss, and regurgitation. Early evaluation can help identify the cause of symptoms and support timely management.

Do not ignore symptoms such as:

• Progressive difficulty swallowing
• Frequent regurgitation
• Persistent chest discomfort
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing both solids and liquids

Achalasia Consultation at Indralok Gastro Liver Clinic

At Indralok Gastro Liver Clinic, patients with digestive, liver, pancreatic, and biliary disorders can receive specialized gastroenterology consultation.

Dr. Upendra Gupta, M.B.B.S., M.D. (Medicine), D.M. (Gastroenterology), IMS-BHU, specializes in the diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal and liver-related conditions, with expertise in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy.

Patients experiencing swallowing difficulties or symptoms suggestive of achalasia can seek expert consultation for appropriate evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning.

Book a Consultation with Dr. Upendra Gupta

If you are experiencing persistent difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food, or unexplained weight loss, consult a qualified gastroenterology specialist for proper evaluation.

Dr. Upendra Gupta
Consultant Hepato-Gastroenterologist & Therapeutic Endoscopist
Indralok Gastro Liver Clinic

Book a consultation for expert evaluation and personalized guidance for achalasia and other gastrointestinal disorders.