Connection between Achalasia and IBS?

[mimers13]

I was diagnosed with Achalasia in my early twenties and finally after the balloon dilitation no longer worked I had to have surgery when I turned 30.  I had the Heller Myotomy in 1992 and have been okay for about 15 years.  I occasionally have a spasm and food does get stuck some times but not anything near how bad it was before surgery  The spasms I've been feeling for the past few years are actually not spasms the ones I used to have.  They feel the same to me but I'm told that the pain I feel is caused by acid reflux and the erosions in my esophagus which are at a 2 now on a scale of 3.  I was taking Nexium but it got so darn expensive I'm off of it for the past year.  About 5 years ago I had my gall bladder surgery and ended up with a pulmonery embolism.  Now I've been having stomach problems.  My GP says I have IBS. When he described what he believes I have it sounds just like the problems I felt when I first was diagnosed with Achalasia: muscles not able to relax to open and close and keep things moving along causing severe cramping and severe pain.  The pain I'm experiencing is in my upper abdomen mostly on the left side.  It feels I eat and eat and can't have a bowel movement.  It feels like upper intestines are closing up.  I'm only able to have a few bouts of diahrrea each day.  The cramping is so painful.  I just want it to stop.  

Is anyone aware of any studies that might have been done?  I'd appreciate it.

[heyhowdy]

Have any of you found more answers about IBS and achalasia since this post? Hope you are well.

[Dr Rajgopal]

Hi,
IBS may be related to Achalasia.  IBS is thought to result from an interplay of abnormal gastrointestinal (GI) tract movements, increased awareness of normal bodily functions, and a change in the nervous system communication between the brain and the GI tract. Abnormal movements of the colon, whether too fast or too slow, are seen in some people who have IBS. Please consult a gastroenterologist for the management of the symptoms. Hope this helps you. Take care and regards!

[Quarlie]

I have not heard of any studies, but I share your symptoms.  More particularly the pain on the left side of my upper abdomen.  I am sorry to hear that we share this pain, but I am also relieved to read that I am not alone.  I live in Memphis where this disease is so rare that I was almost left to die because no doctor in my insurance coverage was experienced enough with the Heller Myotomy to treat it and without even doing any blood tests accused me of  having a drug addiction that caused my severe weight loss.  I was allowed to drop to 80 lbs from 120 lbs before a doctor took a chance and treated me with two unsuccessful botox treatments.  That doctor said the botox wouldn't work anyway because my sphincter muscle had already closed and it couldn't be pried open with botox.  Then, and only then did my doctors agree to the Heller Myotomy.  I was passed out in a laundry mat (as I was still fighting to live) when the doctors under my insurance considered the surgery that would save my life.  Yes, the pain is deep and I feel it everyday with each meal.  It hurts so much to eat, but I continue for myself but especially to watch my daughter grow up.  Even if the world will not help us, I encourage you to find that thing to live for and keep going!