What is Achalasia

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, regurgitation of food, chest pain, and sometimes weight loss. The exact cause of achalasia is unknown, but it is believed to involve the degeneration of nerve cells in the esophagus.

Achalasia is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as esophageal manometry and barium swallow. Treatment options for achalasia include medications to relax the LES, endoscopic procedures to dilate or disrupt the LES, and surgical interventions to remove or bypass the LES.

Living with achalasia can be challenging, as it can significantly impact a person's ability to eat and drink normally. However, with proper management and treatment, individuals with achalasia can lead a relatively normal life.