Achalasia

• A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• Q
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

Achalasia - series

Digestive system

Upper gastrointestinal system

Esophageal achalasia

• Difficulty swallowing liquids and solids
• Regurgitation (backflow) of food
• Chest pain which may increase after eating or may radiate to the back, neck, and arms
• Unintentional weight loss
• Heartburn
• Cough

An upper GI x-ray test or barium esophagogram may show absence of peristalsis, an enlarged esophagus, and a narrowing at the bottom of the esophagus. The diagnosis is confirmed with esophageal manometry. Physical examination may show signs of anemia.

Review Date: 05/04/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.