Understanding Your Achalasia Treatment Options
Achalasia is a rare, but serious condition affecting the esophagus. If you’ve been diagnosed with achalasia or suspect you may be experiencing some of the symptoms of achalasia, you have options for treatment. In this article, we will discuss what achalasia is, symptoms of achalasia, and treatment options for achalasia.
What is achalasia?
Achalasia is a rare disorder of the esophagus that diminishes its capability to pass food and liquids into the stomach. Achalasia is the result of an overly tight lower esophageal sphincter that lacks the ability to relax properly.
What causes achalasia?
Achalasia can happen for different reasons. This condition may be hereditary or triggered by an autoimmune issue, which can cause your body to attack healthy cells.
Achalasia Symptoms
People with achalasia will often have trouble swallowing or feel like there is something stuck in their throat. This is called Dysphagia, and it’s just one of several unpleasant symptoms that people with achalasia experience Other common symptoms include:
pain or discomfort in your chest
weight loss
heartburn
intense pain or discomfort after eating
Achalasia Treatment
There are different treatment options available to help minimize the effects of achalasia, but achalasia is a lifetime disorder. Currently, there is no permanent cure for the disorder. Many treatment options are designed for temporary relief of symptoms, not a permanent solution for achalasia.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Balloon dilation: During this procedure, a balloon is inserted into the esophageal sphincter and inflated, forcing the opening to expand. Many people will need to undergo this treatment a second time if the LES doesn't remain open from the balloon.
Botox: Botox can be injected directly into the lower esophageal sphincter using a flexible tube with a camera on the end called an endoscope. Botox is usually recommended for patients who aren't candidates for balloon dilation or surgery.
Surgical Treatment for Achalasia
The main achalasia surgery is the Heller myotomy. This procedure involves cutting the LES to allow food to pass through. During the procedure, the LES is partially rebuilt to prevent reflux from occurring again. Surgery has proven to be the most effective long-term treatment for Achalasia, and most patients notice an improvement in symptoms almost immediately.
If you have been diagnosed with achalasia or are suffering from symptoms related to achalasia and haven’t yet made an appointment with an achalasia specialist, call the reflux specialists at Tampa Bay Reflux Center today to find the best treatment method for you.