Achalasia is uncommon but classic in presentation: progressive dysphagia for both solids and liquids (unlike cancer, which is solids first), regurgitation of undigested food often with bad breath, and weight loss. Diagnosis combines high-resolution oesophageal manometry, barium swallow (the classic "bird's beak" appearance), and endoscopy. Surgical Heller's myotomy with partial fundoplication is the gold-standard treatment, with per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) as an effective alternative in selected cases.
Condition
Achalasia Cardia
Also known as: Oesophageal achalasia · Cardiospasm
A motility disorder of the oesophagus where the lower oesophageal sphincter fails to relax. Causes progressive difficulty swallowing both solids and liquids, regurgitation, and weight loss. Treated definitively by Heller's myotomy or POEM.
Signs and symptoms
When to suspect achalasia cardia
- Difficulty swallowing both solids and liquids
- Regurgitation of undigested food
- Chest pain (especially after meals)
- Heartburn-like symptoms unresponsive to PPIs
- Unintentional weight loss
- Nocturnal coughing or aspiration
- Hiccups
Risk factors
Who is at higher risk
- Idiopathic in most cases
- Chagas disease (in endemic areas)
- Genetic factors (rare)
- Autoimmune conditions
Surgical treatment options
Procedures Dr. Reddy performs for achalasia cardia
Esophagectomy / Heller's Myotomy / Diverticulectomy
Esophagus Surgery
Esophageal cancer surgery, achalasia (Heller's myotomy), and benign oesophageal procedures by Dr. Dwarakanath Reddy at Apollo Nellore. Minimally invasive where appropriate.
Related conditions
Others in the same area of practice.
ICD-10 · K35
Acute Appendicitis
Inflammation of the vermiform appendix. The most common cause of acute abdominal pain requiring surgery. Untreated, it progresses to perforation within 24 to 48 hours.
ICD-10 · K80
Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)
Gallstones are hardened deposits of cholesterol or bilirubin in the gallbladder. Most are silent, but symptomatic gallstones cause pain after fatty meals, nausea, and risk of complications like pancreatitis.
ICD-10 · K21
Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Chronic acid reflux from the stomach into the oesophagus. Causes heartburn, regurgitation, and over time, oesophagitis or Barrett's oesophagus. Severe GERD that fails medical therapy is a surgical indication.
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