Achalasia is a swallowing disorder that affects the esophagus. The esophagus connects your throat to your stomach. Normally, food moves down the esophagus as a person swallows. If you have achalasia, the muscles of the esophagus do not work, and food and drinks cannot fully reach your stomach. There is also a problem with the valve at the lower end of your esophagus. Achalasia usually develops slowly. Over time, it becomes very difficult to swallow food and drinks. With treatment, the symptoms of achalasia can be effectively controlled.
What Causes Achalasia?
In many cases, achalasia is caused by the loss of the nerve cells that enable swallowing.
Who Is at Higher Risk of Achalasia?
Achalasia can develop in any age group. It is usually seen between the ages of 30 and 60. Women and men are equally likely to develop it.
Other risk factors:
- Genetic factors
- Immune system problems
- Having had an infection with herpes virus or other viruses.
- Having had Chagas disease
Symptoms:
Although symptoms vary from person to person, the common symptoms are:
- Difficulty swallowing food
- Food or water coming back up into the mouth
- Coughing that gets worse at night
- A burning sensation in the chest
- A feeling of pressure in the chest
- Hiccups
- Weight loss
Various modern imaging techniques and endoscopy are used for diagnosis. Treatment alternatives such as botulinum toxin injection or surgery are available.
The information on our website is not intended to direct individuals to any treatment. Do not take any diagnostic or treatment steps without consulting your doctor. The content does not contain information about İzmir Can Hastanesi's therapeutic healthcare services.
