Achalasia Cardia Treatment

What is Achalasia Cardia?
Achalasia cardia is a disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that normally relaxes to allow food to enter the stomach. In achalasia, this muscle fails to relax, preventing food and liquid from moving into the stomach. Additionally, the muscles in the lower part of the esophagus lose their normal peristalsis (the wave-like contractions that help move food down). This results in food and liquids accumulating in the esophagus, leading to a range of symptoms like difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), chest pain, regurgitation, and weight loss.
Treatment Options for Achalasia Cardia?
Treatment for achalasia cardia aims to alleviate symptoms, improve swallowing, and prevent complications. The goal is to relieve the obstruction at the lower esophageal sphincter and improve the motility of the esophagus. Dr. Dhananjay Pandey offers a range of treatment options depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health:
Symptoms of Achalasia Cardia
The symptoms of achalasia can vary in severity and may develop gradually. Common symptoms include
- Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): One of the most prominent symptoms of achalasia is the inability to swallow food or liquids properly. It may feel like food is getting stuck in the chest or throat.
- Chest Pain: Some individuals with achalasia experience chest pain, which can mimic the pain associated with heart disease. This discomfort is often linked to esophageal spasms or food being stuck in the esophagus
- Regurgitation: Food or liquids may be regurgitated back into the mouth, especially after eating, causing discomfort and embarrassment.
- Weight Loss: Difficulty eating and swallowing can lead to unintentional weight loss due to reduced food intake


Diagnosis of Achalasia Cardia
To diagnose achalasia, Dr. Dhananjay Pandey conducts a thorough examination and may recommend the following diagnostic tests
- Barium Swallow X-ray: This imaging test involves drinking a barium solution, which shows up on X-rays and helps visualize the shape and function of the esophagus. It may show a characteristic "bird's beak" appearance at the LES.
- Esophageal Manometry: This test measures the pressure inside the esophagus, particularly the LES. It helps assess the motility of the esophagus and the functioning of the LES.
- Endoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth to visualize the inside of the esophagus and rule out other conditions that could be causing similar symptoms.
- CT Scan or MRI: In some cases, imaging tests like CT or MRI may be recommended to rule out other causes of the symptoms or assess any complications.
Endoscopic Procedures
- Pneumatic Dilation: This procedure involves inflating a balloon at the LES to widen it, helping food pass more easily into the stomach. It is a minimally invasive option but may require repeated treatments
Surgical Treatments
- Heller Myotomy: This surgery involves cutting the muscle fibers of the LES to allow food to pass through. It is considered one of the most effective treatments for achalasia.
Lifestyle Modifications
- In addition to medical or surgical treatments, Dr. Pandey recommends lifestyle changes to help manage achalasia symptoms. These may include eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding large or difficult-to-swallow foods, and staying upright after meals to reduce regurgitation.

Hospital Address
Max Super Speciality Hospital W-3, Ashok Marg, Sector-1, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, UP
FAQs
While there is no cure for achalasia, treatment options like surgery, endoscopic procedures, and medications can manage symptoms and improve swallowing.
The best treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Options include medications, botox injections, endoscopic procedures like pneumatic dilation and POEM, or surgery such as Heller myotomy.
Recovery time after surgery varies. Most patients can return to normal activities within 2-4 weeks, but it may take several months for full recovery.
Yes, achalasia is progressive, meaning symptoms often worsen over time if left untreated. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Yes, lifestyle changes such as eating smaller meals, avoiding foods that are difficult to swallow, and staying upright after meals can help reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.