Achalasia Cardia
What is Achalasia Cardia?
Achalasia is a disorder where the lower esophagus fails to relax, making swallowing difficult.
Symptoms:
- Difficulty swallowing solids and liquids
- Regurgitation
- Chest discomfort
- Weight loss
Diagnosis:
- High-resolution manometry
- Barium swallow
- Endoscopy
Treatment:
- Endoscopic: POEM (modern technique), balloon dilation, Botox
- Surgical: Heller myotomy
- Medical: Nitrates or calcium channel blockers (limited effect)