Achalasia is a rare disease of the muscle of the esophagus. The term achalasia
means "failure to relax" and refers to the inability of the
lower esophageal sphincter to open and let food/liquids pass into the
stomach. As a result, patients with achalasia experience progressive
dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).
Symptoms of Achalasia
Experts do not know what causes achalasia. At first, an individual may
experience only minor
dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). However, over time, swallowing of foods and liquids
becomes increasingly more difficult, as the disorder progresses.
In fact, dysphagia is commonly the main symptom of achalasia, with as many
as 90% of patients experiencing difficulty swallowing both solids and
liquids. Other symptoms of achalasia may include:
- Regurgitation of indigested food (as condition worsen, liquids as well)
- Discomfort or pain in the chest, especially after meals
- Coughing, especially when lying down
- Weight loss (as the disorder progresses)
- Aspiration of food, liquid and/or saliva, which can lead to pneumonia and
other respiratory infections.
Because the symptoms of achalasia are similar to many others types of dysphagia,
accurate evaluation is critical to ensure proper treatment. That’s
why it’s important to seek care from a healthcare expert experienced
in the complex
treatment of swallowing disorders and other gastroesophageal conditions.
Expert Care You Can Trust!
The Hoag Digestive Disease Center, in alliance with USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, continues to
lead the way in complex gastroesophageal care, providing access to a highly
specialized surgical team that works collaboratively with Hoag-affiliated
thoracic surgeons, gastroenterologists and medical oncology specialists
to provide academic-level care. Hoag’s committed to
accurate diagnosis, combined with
progressive therapeutic options enables Hoag patients to achieve some of the highest clinical outcomes
in the nation.
To schedule a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, or a second-opinion
consultation with a Hoag gastroesophageal expert, visit Meet the Team,
or call us at: 888-566-9712.