What is achalasia?

Achalasia is a rare disorder of the esophagus (the muscular tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach) that affects its normal functioning.

In achalasia, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular valve at the end of the esophagus, fails to relax and open properly, blocking food and liquids from passing into the stomach. The esophagus is not able to move food downwards effectively.

This obstruction leads to a backup of food and saliva in the esophagus, causing a range of symptoms, including difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), chest pain, regurgitation of undigested food, heartburn, bad breath (halitosis), weight loss, and coughing or choking while eating.

The exact cause of achalasia is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by damage to the nerves and muscles that control the LES. Achalasia can also occur as a result of other medical conditions, such as Chagas disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and thyroid disorders.

Achalasia is diagnosed through a combination of tests, including a barium swallow, an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, and a manometry test. Treatment options may include medications to relax the LES, endoscopic procedures to widen the esophageal opening, or surgical intervention.