Achalasia

Achalasia is a condition where there is either increased tone of the sphincter at the bottom of the oesophagus, or problems with the peristaltic waves so that the oesophagus does not contract properly. This can cause emptying of the oesophagus to be delayed, causing dysphagia and heartburn.

The oesophagus can become very dilated, and the contents can overflow into the trachea and lungs - a process called aspiration. Surgery may be required to reduce the tone of the sphincter.
 
 
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