What Are the 3 Types of Achalasia?
Here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center, we help many patients with GERD; however, many of our patients suffer from a condition that is essentially GERD’s opposite: achalasia. We offer several tests and treatment options to help you manage your achalasia symptoms. Let’s take a look at what causes achalasia and the different types of achalasia. If you suspect that you might be suffering from this condition, reach out to a gastroesophageal specialist.
What Is Achalasia?
Achalasia is a condition that is characterized by trouble swallowing, usually resulting in regurgitation and difficulty when eating. There are three different types of achalasia, all with slightly different symptoms; however, each type of achalasia causes dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) of varying degrees. You and your doctor will work together to figure out which type you have, then move onto selecting a plan of treatment.
The important thing to remember is that achalasia is treatable, and you will have a variety of effective options.
What Causes Achalasia?
This condition is caused by an issue with the nerve endings in the esophagus. Patients with achalasia have an abnormally tight lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that doesn’t loosen easily to let chewed and swallowed food enter the stomach properly. Some patients also find that their esophagus doesn’t contract properly to move food downwards, in addition to other problems.
The Three Different Types of Achalasia
Type 1 Achalasia
Also the easiest type of achalasia to treat, Type 1 Achalasia (Common Achalasia) has a variety of symptoms:
The LES doesn’t relax completely, leading to regurgitation and trouble swallowing.
There may also be pressure or a sensation of having a lump in the throat.
Type 2 Achalasia
The second type of achalasia is more dramatically characterized by a build-up of pressure in the esophagus. If you have Type 2 Achalasia, you may experience:
Severe pressure, discomfort, and compression in the esophagus.
Eating or drinking causes pain and you are unable to swallow effectively.
Type 3 Achalasia
Type 3 Achalasia is less constant, but attacks can be very painful and severe. If you suffer from the following symptoms, you may need to be diagnosed with the third type of achalasia.
Esophageal attacks that pass as soon as they come on. Attacks may be extremely painful, often mimicking a heart attack.
Spasms come and go with no apparent cause or reason.
Achalasia Treatment in Tampa Bay
First, you and your reflux specialist will work to diagnose the root of your dysphagia. Depending on the type of achalasia you suffer from, there are multiple treatment options available, all of which are offered here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center! Schedule a time to sit down with us and talk about your condition today!