Diagnosis Information: 
Achalasia

Achalasia is a neuromuscular disorder in which there is an absence of normal peristalsis within the esophagus and additionally the sphincter at the end of the esophagus fails to relax. This leads to dilatation of the esophagus. Food backs up and patients complain of an inability to swallow. Although weight loss occurs, it is not usually a dramatic part of the disease. Despite the obstruction in the esophagus, food does eventually pass into the stomach. The disease is more common in men than women and occurs most frequently in the years between 30 and 60.