Achalasia: A Simple Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Related Conditions

A Simple Guide To Achalasia, (Swallowing Disorder) Diagnosis, Treatment And Related Conditions

by Kenneth Kee

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	388 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	105 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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What is Achalasia?

Achalasia is a rare swallowing disFree Download that affects the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. In achalasia, the muscles of the esophagus do not relax properly, which makes it difficult for food to pass through. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

* Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) * Regurgitation of food or liquid * Chest pain * Heartburn * Weight loss * Aspiration pneumonia

What Causes Achalasia?

The exact cause of achalasia is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Achalasia is often associated with other autoimmune disFree Downloads, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

How is Achalasia Diagnosed?

Achalasia is diagnosed based on a patient's symptoms and a physical examination. A doctor may also Free Download one or more of the following tests:

* Barium swallow: A barium swallow is an X-ray test that uses a contrast agent to visualize the esophagus. * Esophageal manometry: An esophageal manometry is a test that measures the pressure in the esophagus. * Endoscopy: An endoscopy is a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end to visualize the esophagus.

How is Achalasia Treated?

There is no cure for achalasia, but there are a number of treatments that can help to relieve symptoms. These treatments include:

* Medications: Medications can help to relax the muscles of the esophagus and make it easier to swallow. * Botox injections: Botox injections can paralyze the muscles of the esophagus, which can also make it easier to swallow. * Pneumatic dilation: Pneumatic dilation is a procedure that uses a balloon to stretch the esophagus. * Heller myotomy: Heller myotomy is a surgical procedure that cuts the muscles of the esophagus.

What are the Related Conditions of Achalasia?

Achalasia is often associated with other conditions, including:

* Chagas disease: Chagas disease is a parasitic infection that can damage the esophagus and other organs. * Scleroderma: Scleroderma is an autoimmune disFree Download that can cause thickening and hardening of the skin and other tissues, including the esophagus. * Amyloidosis: Amyloidosis is a condition that causes proteins to build up in the tissues of the body, including the esophagus.

Living with Achalasia

Living with achalasia can be challenging, but there are a number of things you can do to manage your symptoms. These include:

* Eating small, frequent meals * Avoiding foods that are difficult to swallow * Drinking plenty of fluids * Elevating your head and shoulders when you sleep * Taking medications as prescribed * Getting regular checkups

If you have achalasia, it is important to see a doctor regularly to monitor your condition and manage your symptoms.

A Simple Guide To Achalasia, (Swallowing Disorder) Diagnosis, Treatment And Related Conditions

by Kenneth Kee

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	388 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	105 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE