Feeling difficulty in swallowing food and even water then might be achalasia cardia affecting 6 people per 100,000 population per year. If you are suffering from it and in search of the best Achalasia cardia treatment in Bangalore, look no further than Dr. Bhushan Chittawadagi with 18+ experience in this field he’s recognized as the best stomach specialist in Bangalore. He has contributed significantly to the field of Gastrointestinal Surgery with 15 publications in major PUBMED-listed national and international journals and has been honored with 7 national/ international awards for his outstanding benefactions.
Dr. Bhushan has treated more than 8000+ patients with a 95% success ratio and currently practicing at Hosmat Hospital and Trilfe Hospital, Bangalore, Karnataka where he is a consultant and best Gastroenterologist and an Advanced Laparoscopic, and GI Cancer Surgeon providing effective treatment and facilitating quick recovery for his patients.
What is achalasia-cardia?
Achalasia cardia is a delicate complaint where the lesser esophageal sphincter( LES) fails to relax properly, making it difficult for food and liquids to pass from the esophagus into the stomach. This results in difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and regurgitation of undigested food. The condition is caused by the debilitation of nerve cells in the esophagus, though the exact reason is unknown.
Who can get achalasia-cardia?
Achalasia cardia can affect people of all ages, but it’s most generally diagnosed in grown-ups between the ages of 30 and 60. There is no single given cause, but some procurators may accelerate the threat:
- Age: While most generally diagnosed between 30- 60, it can happen at any age.
- Gender: Men and women are similarly affected
- Genetics: There might be a genetic predisposition, though not directly inherited.
- Autoimmune Factors: A possible link exists between achalasia and autoimmune responses.
Symptoms Of Achalasia Cardia:
Achalasia cardia can cause various discomforting symptoms, all stemming from the challenge of food passing from the esophagus to the stomach. Here are the primary symptoms:
- Difficulty Swallowing( Dysphagia): This common symptom feels like food is stuck in the chest and affects both solids and liquids.
- Chest Pain: Sharp or burning chest pain, frequently mistaken for heartburn, can occur.
- Regurgitation: Undigested food or slaver may flow back into the mouth or throat.
- Weight Loss: Difficulty swallowing can result in reduced food input and unintentional weight loss.
- Feeling of Fullness: After Eating Small Amounts Food may not enter the stomach correctly, causing a quick feeling of fullness even after eating slight portions.
Complications Associated With Achalasia Cardia:
Dr. Bhushan a gastro surgeon in Bangalore clarifies that untreated achalasia cardia can cause many complications similar as
- Esophageal Dilation: The esophagus reaches and widens due to food buildup, worsening swallowing difficulties.
- Esophagitis: Irritation and inflammation of the esophageal filling occur due to the constant presence of food and acid, causing symptoms like heartburn and chest pain.
- Malnutrition: Difficulty swallowing hinders nutrient input, leading to cargo loss, fatigue, and vitamin/ mineral deficiencies.
- Increased Esophageal Cancer Risk: Long-tenure untreated achalasia can elate the threat of esophageal cancer due to precancerous changes in the damaged esophageal filling.
How to diagnose Achalasia-Cardia?
Diagnosing achalasia cardia generally involves a series of experiments to estimate swallowing function and count other conditions with alike symptoms. Here is an overview of the common individual procedures
- Barium SwallowX-ray This test entails drinking a barium-containing liquid while X-rays track its passage through the esophagus. In achalasia, X-rays may disclose a characteristic” bird’s- -beak” appearance at the lower esophageal sphincter and widening of the esophagus above it.
- Upper Endoscopy Utilizing an endoscope, an adjustable pipe with a camera, the doctor examines the esophagus directly for abnormalities like inflammation or narrowing. Biopsies may be taken for another analysis.
- Esophageal Manometry This test measures pressure changes within the esophagus during swallowing. A pipe with a pressure detector is fitted through the nose to record muscle condensation and lower esophageal sphincter recreation. It’s the most classic test for diagnosing achalasia, discovering characteristic patterns of weak condensation and non-relaxation of the sphincter.
These diagnostic procedures, along with a thorough medical history and physical examination, enable healthcare providers to directly diagnose achalasia cardia and express appropriate treatment plans. also, other tests like esophageal pH monitoring and imaging inquiries similar to CT or MRI scans may be used to further estimate the condition and rule out alternative diagnose
Achalasia Cardia Treatment Options in Bangalore:
According to achalasia cardia surgeon in Bangalore Dr. Bhushan Chittawadagi explains that while achalasia cardia is not curable, there are many advanced treatment options to significantly improve your quality of life and manage symptoms effectively. Here’s an overview of the most common approaches available:
Medications:
- Calcium Channel Blockers & Nitrates: These medications relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), easing swallowing difficulties. However, they typically offer temporary relief and may complement other treatments.
Endoscopic Procedures:
- Balloon Dilation: A balloon-sloped pipe is fitted into the esophagus and inflated at the LES to widen the passage for food, perfecting swallowing.
- Botox Injection Injections temporarily relax the LES muscle, although the effects are temporary and may need repeat procedures.
- POEM( Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy): This minimally invasive procedure involves fitting an adjustable pipe with a camera through the mouth. The surgeon also makes a slim slit in the esophageal lining and cuts the LES muscles to enhance swallowing.
Surgical Procedures:
- Heller Myotomy( Laparoscopic or Open): This surgery involves cutting or stretching the LES muscles to smooth easier passage of food into the stomach. It’s considered the most authoritative treatment for achalasia cardia.
- Esophageal Sphincter Reconstruction( Rare Cases): In cases where other treatments fail, reconstruction of the LES utilizing tissue grafts or implants may be considered to regenerate the usual esophageal function.
Consulting with Dr. Bhushan Chittawadaagi, a dysphagia specialist in Bangalore, can help determine the most suitable treatment approach based on individual needs and preferences. With his expertise, these advanced treatments can significantly improve symptoms and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals living with achalasia cardia.
Why choose Dr. Bhushan for Achalasia Cardia Treatment in Bangalore:
- Expertise: Dr. Bhushan Chittawadagi has years of experience in the field of general and laparoscopic surgery. He has performed many achalasia cardia treatments and is largely skilled in the latest surgical ways.
- Compassionate Care: Dr. Bhushan Chittawadagi is known for his compassionate and patient-centered path to care. He takes the time to listen to his patients ‘ concerns and works closely with them to develop a individualized treatment plan.
- Advanced Technology: Dr. Bhushan Chittawadagi uses the rearmost technology and surgical methods to insure the best practicable outcome for his patients. He’s trained in robotic surgery, which allows for a less invasive and more precise surgical procedure.
- Comprehensive Care: Dr. Bhushan Chittawadagi provides complete care for his cases, involving pre-operative and post-operative care. He works nearly with his cases to insure they understand their treatment options and are comfortable with the surgical procedure.
- Positive outcomes: Dr. Bhushan Chittawadagi has a track record of positive outcomes and happy patients. He strives to achieve the best practicable outgrowth for each of his cases and is committed to supplying the topmost quality of care.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ's):
Dr. Bhushan says that the best treatment for achalasia cardia depends on factors like symptom severity and patient preference. Options include balloon dilation, Heller myotomy surgery, peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM), and Botox injections. The choice is made based on individual circumstances and in consultation with a healthcare provider.
The latest treatments for achalasia include minimally invasive procedures like Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM) and Endoscopic Septotomy, as well as modifications like Per-oral Pyloromyotomy (POP) targeting improved gastric emptying.
The cost of achalasia cardia treatment varies widely depending on factors such as the chosen treatment, healthcare provider, insurance coverage, and additional medical services required. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or hospital billing department for a personalized cost estimate.
Achalasia can impact quality of life but isn’t usually life-threatening. Left untreated, it may lead to complications like malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia. Early diagnosis and management are essential to prevent these issues.
Achalasia surgery, such as Heller myotomy or POEM, is generally safe and effective, with low risks of complications. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, reflux, perforation, pneumothorax, and swallowing difficulties. After surgery, most patients experience significant symptom improvement after surgery.