Achalasia is a rare disorder that affects the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It is characterized by the inability of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax and allow food to pass into the stomach. This results in difficulty swallowing and other related symptoms. While the exact cause of achalasia is unknown, it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Dysphagia: The most common symptom of achalasia is dysphagia, which is difficulty swallowing. Initially, individuals may experience trouble swallowing solid foods, but as the condition progresses, liquids may also become difficult to swallow. Dysphagia can lead to weight loss and malnutrition if not properly managed.
Regurgitation: Another common symptom of achalasia is regurgitation, which is the backflow of food or liquid from the esophagus into the throat or mouth. This can occur during or after eating and can be accompanied by a sour or bitter taste.
Chest pain: Many individuals with achalasia experience chest pain, which can be mild to severe. The pain is often described as a burning sensation behind the breastbone and may worsen after eating or drinking.
Heartburn: Some people with achalasia may also experience heartburn, which is a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus. This symptom is similar to the heartburn experienced in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but the underlying cause is different.
Weight loss: Due to the difficulty in swallowing and regurgitation, individuals with achalasia may experience unintentional weight loss. This can be a result of reduced food intake and malabsorption of nutrients.
Coughing and choking: As food and liquid have difficulty passing through the esophagus, individuals with achalasia may frequently cough or choke while eating or drinking. This can be distressing and may lead to avoidance of certain foods or liquids.
Recurrent respiratory infections: In some cases, achalasia can lead to recurrent respiratory infections. This occurs when food or liquid enters the airways instead of the esophagus, increasing the risk of pneumonia and other respiratory complications.
Hoarseness: Hoarseness or changes in voice quality can occur in individuals with achalasia. This is due to irritation of the vocal cords caused by regurgitated stomach acid.
Chest discomfort: Some individuals with achalasia may experience a feeling of fullness or pressure in the chest, which can be uncomfortable and may mimic symptoms of a heart attack.
Malnutrition: If achalasia is not properly managed, it can lead to malnutrition. The difficulty in swallowing and regurgitation can result in inadequate nutrient intake, leading to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. While achalasia cannot be cured, there are treatment options available to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.