Achalasia is not contagious. It is a rare disorder that affects the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. The condition occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that normally relaxes to allow food to enter the stomach, fails to relax properly. This leads to difficulty in swallowing and the sensation of food getting stuck in the chest.
Achalasia is believed to be caused by damage to the nerves in the esophagus, although the exact cause is still unknown. It is not caused by an infection or any type of contagious agent. Therefore, it cannot be transmitted from person to person through any means, including direct contact, respiratory droplets, or sharing of personal items.
The symptoms of achalasia can vary from person to person but commonly include difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of undigested food, chest pain, and weight loss. If left untreated, it can lead to complications such as aspiration pneumonia and esophageal dilation.
Treatment for achalasia aims to relieve symptoms and improve esophageal function. This can be done through various methods, including medications to relax the LES, balloon dilation to widen the esophagus, and surgical procedures to disrupt the muscle fibers of the LES. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the individual's overall health.