Esophageal Achalasia Essay

1335 Words6 Pages
Esophageal Achalasia: The Rare Swallowing Disease Virginia N. Salazar American Military University Abstract Esophageal achalasia affects one in every one hundred thousand Americans. The disease is a result of weakened muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter causing it to become an obstruction for passing food. Achalasia is one of several subtypes of esophageal motility disorders. In the long term, achalasia can lead to esophageal cancer in patients who suffer from it or are left untreated. Symptoms of achalasia often include regurgitation, difficulty or pain when swallowing, and spasm-like chest pain. Treatments focus on trying to restore normal (peristaltic) contractions in the esophagus and relieving ongoing and often painful symptoms in patients. The several treatments and procedures available include; Drug therapy, Pneumatic dilation, Myotomy, and Botolinum toxic injections. Keywords: Achalasia, Myotomy, Pneumatic dilation, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Esophageal Achalasia: The Rare Swallowing Disease Esophageal achalasia affects approximately 1 in every 100,000 people. “Achalasia develops in about 3,000 people annually. It is usually diagnosed in adults, but can occur in children as well. There is no particular race or ethnic group that is affected, and the condition does not run in families.” (Achalasia and Esophageal Motility Disorders, 2014) It is an extremely rare disorder that currently has no cure. Esophageal achalasia is a condition in which the nerves and muscles of the esophagus do not work properly. This causes two major problems; 1.) Muscles that line the esophagus do not contract properly, and 2.) The lower esophageal sphincter does not function properly. Most people who suffer from this disease are diagnosed between the ages of 25-60. The main symptoms include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, heartburn, unintentional weight

More about Esophageal Achalasia Essay

Open Document