The word meaning of Achalasia, which is used to describe the movement disorder in the esophagus, is known as "difficulty to relax". Achalasia, one of the diseases in the gastrointestinal tract, occurs as a result of the sphincter not relaxing. Achalasia, which increases the risk of esophageal cancer and other gastrointestinal system cancers in the future, is one of the diseases that should be treated. Dr. In this content, where you can find answers to the most frequently asked questions about Achalasia, which Meral Sözen diagnosed and treated, you will be able to find the first symptoms of Achalasia as well as the questions of what is Achalasia, why it occurs, what are the symptoms and how to treat it.
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What is Achalasia?
Achalasia is the disease that occurs as a result of non-relaxation of the lower sphincter. Assuming that 100,000 patients are diagnosed with Achalasia every year, which is seen in individuals between the ages of 25 and 40, Achalasia is also an important disease.
What Causes Achalasia?
There is one valve at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach, and this valve is called the sphinker. If this sphincter valve does not relax during swallowing, we can say that achalasia is in question. Problems occur in the passage of food from the esophagus to the stomach, and after a certain time it comes to a complete stop. The treatment of Achalasia, which is also expressed as motor dysfunction, is satisfactory, so it is possible.
Due to achalasia caused by disorders in the esophagus, food can go to the stomach after a few hours. If the disease progresses, serious enlargements are seen in the esophagus and even an area to accommodate 1 kilogram of food may be encountered in the esophagus. In this disease, which is known to progress, ulceration in the esophagus is also seen. Many factors such as tears behind the breastbone and chest pain can even lead to death.
Major Symptoms of Achalasia in General
- fullness in the throat
- Difficulty in burping
- Vomiting
- Cough
- bitter water in mouth
- chest pain
How Is Achalasia Diagnosed?
90% of achalasia patients go to the doctor because they have difficulty swallowing. Diagnosis can be made easily with the examinations of the doctor. The tests that can be applied in the diagnosis of achalasia are;
- Upper Endoscopy
- CT scan & Barium Graph
- Pressure Measurement Test In The Esophagus And The Lower Part
- Chest and Lung Film
How is Achalasia Disease Treated?
Treatment of achalasia is determined by the degree and severity of the disease. In mild cases of Achalasia, medical treatment is recommended first. Relaxation is provided by drug treatments aimed at controlling the contractions of the muscles in the lower part of the esophagus.
Achalasia can also be treated with endoscopy. This treatment method, which is based on the administration of the necessary drugs to the lower part of the esophagus during endoscopy, is frequently preferred because it is a completely painless and comfortable treatment option. Today, as the most frequently applied treatment method, the lower part of the esophagus can be enlarged with endoscopy.
If you have "difficulty swallowing and have the above symptoms", you should definitely see a Gastroenterologist. Dr. By choosing Meral Sözen, you can get the diagnosis of Achalasia in a short time and start your treatment as quickly as possible.
