Definition: Achalasia is a rare disorder of the esophagus that affects the esophagus' ability to move food toward the stomach. This inability to properly move food through the esophagus and into the stomach can be caused by a number of reasons, including the following:
- Failure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax during swallowing
- Loss of the wave-like contractions of smooth muscles (called peristalsis) that forces food through the digestive tract
- Lack of nervous stimulation to the esophagus
Symptoms of Achalasia
- Difficulty swallowing liquids and solids
- Regurgitation of food
- Chest pain which may increase after eating or may radiate to the back, neck, and arms
- Unexplained weight loss
- Heartburn
Pronunciation: ay-kuh-LAZE-yuh
Also Known As: Esophageal achalasia
