New Delhi: Achalasia cardia is a swallowing disorder characterised by the inability of food to pass through the food pipe (oesophagus) into the stomach. The condition occurs when the muscles in the oesophagus fail to relax properly, leading to a buildup of food in the oesophagus. This can cause symptoms such as dysphasia (difficulty in swallowing), regurgitation of food, heaviness in chest or chest pain, repeated cough & sore throat.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Ramraj V N, Consultant Surgical Gastroenterology, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, Bengaluru, spoke about what achalasia cardia is and how it can be treated.
The Causes and Risk Factors Behind Achalasia Cardia
The exact cause of this ‘not so uncommon’ condition is unknown. It is believed to result from damage to nerves that control the muscles in the oesophagus. This damage can be caused by various factors, including degeneration of the nerve cells, inflammation or infection, genetic predisposition, certain medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or diabetes, and age.
Recognising the Symptoms of Achalasia Cardia
Symptoms of achalasia cardia can vary in severity and include difficulty in swallowing liquids and solids, regurgitation of food into the mouth, chest pain or discomfort, weight loss, recurrent bouts of coughing, change in voice and choking. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, making eating and drinking a challenging task.
Diagnosing Achalasia Cardia: Tests and Procedures
Diagnosing achalasia cardia typically involves a combination of tests to assess the function of oesophagus and identify any abnormalities.
Key diagnostic tests include Upper GI Endoscopy to visualise the food pipe and stomach from inside.
Oesophageal Manometry which measures the pressure of muscle contractions all along the oesophagus.
Additionally, imaging tests such as a barium swallow study and a CT scan of the chest and abdomen with oral and intravenous (IV) contrast may be conducted.
The CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images to help rule out other conditions, assess the oesophagus, and detect any potential complications.
Further tests may include pH monitoring to evaluate acid reflux. These tests collectively enable healthcare providers to diagnose achalasia cardia, differentiate it from other conditions, and develop an effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Achalasia Cardia
Treatment for achalasia cardia depends on the type and severity of the condition and includes Medical, Endoscopic and Surgical modalities.
Surgery, Laparoscopic Heller’s Cardiomyotomy, remains the treatment of choice where the thickened non-relaxing muscles in the lower portion of the food pipe, its junction with the stomach and upper portion of the stomach are split through small key holes to enable smooth passage of food.
Endoscopic procedures like Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), Pneumatic dilation, Botox injections & certain medications have shown good results in select patients.
Managing Achalasia Cardia: Lifestyle Changes
While treatment can help manage symptoms, lifestyle changes also play a crucial role in managing achalasia cardia till any definitive treatment is initiated. Eating slowly and carefully, avoiding large or dry meals, avoiding lying down after eating, and managing stress can help alleviate symptoms.
The Potential Complications of Achalasia Cardia
If left untreated, achalasia cardia can lead to complications such as malnutrition, recurrent respiratory infections or aspiration pneumonia, oesophageal cancer, and stricture or narrowing of the oesophagus. Seeking medical attention promptly is essential to prevent these complications.
Living with Achalasia Cardia: Prognosis and Outlook
With the availability of excellent diagnostic tests & safe treatment modalities ‘living with Achalasia’ should not be an option. The majority of people with achalasia cardia experience significant long-term improvement in symptoms and quality of life after treatment. Working with healthcare providers and making certain lifestyle changes can help individuals manage the condition effectively.
If left untreated, achalasia cardia can lead to complications such as malnutrition, recurrent respiratory infections or aspiration pneumonia, oesophageal cancer, and stricture or narrowing of the oesophagus Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
