Division of General Surgery What is achalasia? Achalasia is a
rare disorder of the esophagus (the tube that carries food from
the mouth to the stomach) that makes it difficult for food and
liquid to pass into the stomach. In achalasia, the esophagus
loses its ability to push food down and the muscular valve
between the esophagus and the stomach (the lower esophageal
sphincter) doesn’t fully relax. This condition is caused by
damage to the nerves in the esophagus. Achalasia is a rare
disorder. It may occur at any age, but is most common in middle-
aged or older adults. This problem may be inherited in some
people. What are the symptoms of achalasia? In many patients,
the onset of achalasia symptoms can be gradual. In others,
symptoms occur and progress much more rapidly. Common symptoms
include: Backflow (regurgitation) of food Chest pain, which may
increase after eating Difficulty swallowing liquids and solids
Unintentional weight loss How is achalasia diagnosed? There are
a variety of tests needed to confirm