Achalasia

Esophageal achalasia, also known as cardiac spasm or giant esophagus, is a primary esophageal motility disorder characterized by relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and replacement of non-motility. Its cause is not very clear, there are three theories of congenital, myogenic and neurogenic. The widely accepted theory is neurogenicity. The main clinical manifestations are dysphagia, food reflux, and discomfort or pain behind the lower sternum. This disease is a rare disease (estimated to be about 1 in every 100,000 people) and can occur at any age, but it is most common in the age group of 20 to 39 years. It is rare in children and is roughly equal in men and women, and is more common in Europe and North America. There is a potential risk of esophageal cancer if the disease is left untreated.