What are the three types of achalasia?

What are the three types of achalasia?

Achalasia is a heterogeneous disease categorized into 3 distinct types based on manometric patterns: type I (classic) with minimal contractility in the esophageal body, type II with intermittent periods of panesophageal pressurization, and type III (spastic) with premature or spastic distal esophageal contractions ( …

What are the stages of achalasia?

Radiologically the condition has been clinically divided into stages where early achalasia (esophageal diameter <4 cm) moderate achalasia (esophageal diameter 4–6 cm), and severe achalasia (esophageal diameter >6 cm) are present with their respective symptom patterns.

What is the most common cause of achalasia?

The exact cause of achalasia is poorly understood. Researchers suspect it may be caused by a loss of nerve cells in the esophagus. There are theories about what causes this, but viral infection or autoimmune responses have been suspected.

Which type of achalasia is worse?

Type II patients have an excellent prognosis and while type III has a much poorer outcome due to the overlapping spastic features, which are difficult to treat. EGJ outflow obstruction is a unique diagnosis that can present as achalasia, but may also be associated with a subtle mechanical obstruction.

What is the best treatment for achalasia?

While pneumatic dilatation is superior to botulinum toxin injection surgical myotomy provides the best long-term control of symptoms in patients with achalasia. Conclusion: Laparoscopic myotomy should be the initial treatment for most patients with achalasia.

What foods help achalasia?

Living with Achalasia. There is no special diet for the condition, but you may discover on your own which foods pass through your esophagus more easily. Drinking more water with meals may help. Sometimes carbonated drinks like colas help as well.

Which is the best treatment for achalasia disease?

Achalasia treatment focuses on relaxing or forcing open the lower esophageal sphincter so that food and liquid can move more easily through your digestive tract. Specific treatment depends on your age and the severity of the condition. Nonsurgical options include: Pneumatic dilation.

How is a manometry test used to diagnose achalasia?

Esophageal manometry. This test measures the rhythmic muscle contractions in your esophagus when you swallow, the coordination and force exerted by the esophagus muscles, and how well your lower esophageal sphincter relaxes or opens during a swallow. X-rays of your upper digestive system.

How does achalasia affect the swallowing of food?

Overview Achalasia is a rare disorder that makes it difficult for food and liquid to pass from the swallowing tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus) into your stomach. Achalasia occurs when nerves in the esophagus become damaged.

How is balloon dilation used to treat achalasia?

Pneumatic dilation. A balloon is inserted into the esophageal sphincter and inflated to enlarge the opening. This outpatient procedure may need to be repeated if the esophageal sphincter doesn’t stay open. Nearly one-third of people treated with balloon dilation need repeat treatment within six years. Botox (botulinum toxin type A).