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URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/presentations/100143.htm

Achalasia - series—Indications

Indications

Overview

Achalasia is a disorder in which the esophageal sphincter does not relax when food passes down the esophagus to the stomach. As a result, the esophagus becomes distended and filled with food, and food passes into the stomach very slowly.

Achalasia is often associated with chest pain during eating, weight loss, and regurgitation of food. The esophagus becomes distended as food and liquid are unable to pass into the stomach.

Review Date 12/31/2023

Updated by: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Aria - Jefferson Health Torresdale, Jefferson Digestive Diseases Network, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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