Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

achalasia

Noun

/ˌā-kə-ˈlā-zhə/

Definition

A condition in which the esophagus is unable to properly move food to the stomach due to a failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax.

Examples

Patients with achalasia often experience chest pain and regurgitation.
Doctors may recommend dilation of the esophagus to help relieve symptoms of achalasia.
Living with achalasia requires dietary adjustments to make swallowing easier.

Meaning

Achalasia refers to a disorder affecting the esophagus, leading to difficulty in swallowing and potentially causing food to accumulate in the esophagus.