Achalasia Cardia: Complete Guide to Symptoms, Diagnosis & Advanced POEM Treatment in Malad, Mumbai
Achalasia cardia is a rare condition that affects swallowing. It happens when the food pipe (esophagus) is unable to push food properly into the stomach due to failure of muscle relaxation at its lower end.
Today, with modern advances in gastroenterology, achalasia can be treated safely and effectively, especially using advanced procedures like POEM (Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy).
If you are looking for expert care for achalasia cardia in Malad, Mumbai, Dr. Gaurav Patil provides advanced, evidence-based treatment with a strong focus on safety and long-term results.
What Is Achalasia Cardia?
In achalasia cardia:
The normal wave-like movement of the food pipe becomes weak or absent
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) does not relax properly
Food and liquids get stuck before entering the stomach
Over time, this leads to increasing difficulty in swallowing and discomfort after meals.
Common Symptoms of Achalasia Cardia
Symptoms usually develop slowly and may worsen over months or years:
Difficulty swallowing solids and liquids
Food coming back into the mouth (regurgitation)
Chest pain or heaviness
Night-time coughing or choking
Repeated chest infections
Unexplained weight loss
Bad breath due to food retention
If these symptoms are present, early medical evaluation is strongly advised.
Why Does Achalasia Happen?
The exact cause is not fully known, but it is linked to damage of the nerves controlling the esophagus. Possible contributing factors include:
Autoimmune-related nerve injury
Previous viral infections (rare)
Genetic susceptibility in some individuals
Achalasia is not caused by acidity or lifestyle alone, and proper testing is needed for diagnosis.
How Is Achalasia Cardia Diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis requires specialized tests performed by a gastroenterologist:
Key diagnostic tests include:
High-Resolution Esophageal Manometry (HRM) – the gold standard test
Upper GI Endoscopy to rule out cancer or narrowing
Barium Swallow X-ray, showing the classic “bird-beak” appearance
CT scan, in selected cases
Early diagnosis helps prevent long-term damage to the esophagus.
Treatment Options for Achalasia Cardia
Treatment focuses on reducing tightness at the lower end of the esophagus so food can pass easily.
- Medicines
Medications may give temporary relief but usually do not provide long-term control.
- Endoscopic Treatments
Pneumatic balloon dilatation
POEM (Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy) – the most advanced and effective option
- Surgical Treatment
Laparoscopic Heller’s myotomy
POEM (Per-Oral Endoscopic Myotomy): The Most Advanced Treatment
POEM is a scarless, incision-free endoscopic procedure performed from inside the food pipe. During POEM, the tight muscle causing obstruction is carefully cut, allowing smooth passage of food.
Key Benefits of POEM:
No external cuts or stitches
Minimal pain
Faster recovery
Short hospital stay
Excellent long-term symptom relief
Effective for all types of achalasia
Suitable even for complex or previously treated cases
POEM has become the preferred treatment worldwide for achalasia when performed by experienced specialists.
Expertise in POEM and Advanced Endoscopy in Malad, Mumbai
Management of achalasia requires high-level expertise in esophageal physiology and advanced endoscopy.
Dr. Gaurav Patil is a specialist in advanced endoscopic procedures, with extensive experience in POEM and related techniques. He is actively involved in teaching and training doctors from India and overseas in advanced endoscopic procedures, including POEM.
Patients benefit from:
Precise diagnosis using modern technology
Individualized treatment planning
High safety standards
Evidence-based protocols
Long-term follow-up care
Why Early Treatment Matters
If left untreated, achalasia can lead to:
Severe weight loss and malnutrition
Repeated aspiration and lung infections
Progressive dilation of the esophagus
Poor quality of life
Increased long-term risk of esophageal cancer
Timely treatment significantly improves outcomes and daily functioning.
Achalasia cardia is a chronic but highly treatable condition. With early diagnosis and advanced techniques such as POEM, most patients can return to a normal, comfortable life without long-term restrictions.
If you or a loved one has persistent difficulty in swallowing, chest discomfort, or food regurgitation, expert evaluation is strongly recommended.
Shri Siddhivinayak Polyclinic
Comprehensive Care With Compassion 🩺
📍 Address: Plot No. 101, Marve Link Building, Mith Chowky, Link Road, Malad (West), Mumbai – 400064
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📞 For Appointments: +91 84520 50023
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🌐 Website: www.shrisiddhivinayakpolyclinic.com
👨⚕️ Our Consulting Doctors
Dr. Kumar L. Patil, M.D. (Bom) Consultant Physician & Diabetes Specialist
Dr. Gaurav Patil Director – Gastroenterology & Advanced Endoscopy