0
begins with a careful medical history. The history should focus on the timing of symptoms and on eliminating other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
The actually diagnosis is usually made after a video-esophgram. Basically it involves the patient swallowing barium and video x-rays of the esophagus are taken. If the barium stays in the esophagus longer than normal, it's a sign of achalasia. Also the x-ray study would show if the esophagus is enlarged/dilated with a tapered narriowing at the lower end - which is also a sign of achalasia.
Sometimes another test - esophageal manometry - is used. For this test a thin tube is passed through the nose, down the back of the throat and into the esophagus all the way down o the lower esophageal sphincter (the muscle at the top of the stomach). This tube measures the pressure generated by the esophageal muscle - and this will be abnormal (there will be no peristalitic wave) if someone has achalasia. Also the lower esophageal sphincter will not relax as much.
An endoscopy can also be used when trying to diagnosis achalasia. The person is put under and a flexible fiberoptic tube with a camera is put own their throat. The camera provides direct visualization of the inside of the esophagus which is helpful (especially in ruling out esophageal cancer which may have symptoms similar to achalasia).
What else can I help you with?
What is the definition of achalasia?
Achalasia is a disorder of the esophagus.
Should people smoke if have achalasia?
People shouldn't smoke regardless of whether or not they have achalasia.
What part of the body is affected by Achalasia?
Achalasia is a very rare muscular disease that affects the esophagus, the passage you use to swallow food. The term Achalasia refers to the meaning "Failure to relax."
Is achalasia hereditary?
yes
What is another word for achalasia?
Cardiospasm
What is the prognosis for people with achalasia?
The prognosis for people with achalasia is generally good with appropriate treatment. However, the condition is chronic and may require ongoing management. In some cases, complications such as esophageal strictures or aspiration pneumonia can occur.
What is the failure of the the les muscle to relax?
Achalasia
What occurs with Achalasia?
In achalasia, which means "failure to relax," the esophageal sphincter remains contracted. Normal peristalsis is interrupted and food cannot enter the stomach
What is absence of peristalsis?
achalasia (absent or ineffective peristalsis)
What is the singular word for diagnoses?
Diagnosis An accurate diagnosis was made after the test.
What is Megaesophagus?
Abnormal enlargement of the lower portion of the esophagus, as seen in patients with achalasia.
What is the medical term meaning inability to relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract?
Achalasia
