Hi withie,
Dilatation done for achalasia provides only symptomatic relief. It does not cure the underlying cause. So there are chances of recurrence.
As said eralier, the lower esophageal sphincter fails to relax propely and food stays above in the esophagus itself.
Whatever symptoms you have now may be because of statis of food due to recurrence of achalasia. Manometry / barium swallow may help to see whether it has recurred.
If recurrence is there, you need a dilatation again.
You may also try some postural changes to clear this food stasis. The postural changes which many adopt are - raising the arms above the head, straightening the back and standing at very erect posture . Slow ,deliberate swallowing may also relieve the symptoms you have mentioned.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.
- Ratnakar Kini M.D.
Thankyou very much for your reply, yes I have had a manometry test done and that is how the achalasia was diagnosed several years ago I also had a dilatation done (ready for redoing I feel) and on regular medication for acid. I am not actually sick with the achalasia but mostly I feel like the food goes no further than just under my breastbone. and sometimes if I am laid down fluid will just come up to the back of my throat but not a vomiting feeling. Would I know if the aspiration was taking place into my lungs other than the intermittent shortness of breath, or is this how it presents if it has? thankyou once again you are so helpful. Withie.
Hi withie,,
Achlasia and GERD (acid reflux) are different. In achalsia, the lower esophageal sphincter fails to relax. In GERD, the sphincter relaxes abnormally allowing acid to go up in to the esophagus.
But both can cause lung symptoms. In GERD, the acid content may get aspirated and cause symptoms. In achalasia, the food that stays above the tight sphincter may get regurgitated and aspirated in to the lungs.
A manometry and 24 hours pH monitoring will be helpful to know whether it is GERD or achalasia.
Regarding COPD, CT scan is the most sensitive test that can be done for diagnosis.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.
- Ratnakar Kini M.D.