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Achalasia

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Esophageal achalasia

Treatment:

The approach to treatment is to reduce the pressure at the lower esophageal sphincter. This may be achieved by manipulating the lower esophagus sphincter with special instruments.

Therapy usually involves widening of the lower sphincter or injection with botulinum toxin (Botox) to paralyze it and prevent spasms. Medications such as long-acting nitrates or calcium channel blockers can also be used to lower the pressure at the lower esophagus sphincter.

Surgery (called an esophagomyotomy) to decrease the pressure in the lower sphincter may be needed. Your doctor can help you decide which treatment is best for your situation.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcomes of surgery and dilation are similar. Sometimes more than one dilation is necessary.

Complications:

• Tearing (perforation) of the esophagus
• Regurgitation of acid or food from the stomach into the esophagus (reflux)
• Aspiration of food contents into the lung that can cause pneumonia

Calling your health care provider:

Call your provider if you have persistent difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing, or if symptoms persist despite treatment for achalasia.

• Review Date: 5/4/2006
• Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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