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Achalasia is a relatively rare disorder of the esophagus (the passageway from the mouth to the stomach) that makes it difficult for food and liquid to pass into the stomach. Mayo Clinic is a world leader in diagnosing and treating diseases of the esophagus. Mayo's gastroenterology physicians and thoracic (chest) surgeons have advanced training, extensive experience and state-of-the-art facilities for treating achalasia. Patients are cared for by teams of physicians and allied health personnel with broad expertise in treating this disorder.
Mayo Clinic in Minnesota ranked No. 1 among U.S. hospitals in the specialty of digestive disorders in U.S. News & World Report's 2008 Best Hospitals ranking.
Other conditions may be confused with achalasia. Mayo has many tools to help make an accurate diagnosis. Read more about achalasia diagnosis.
Although there is no known cure for achalasia, several treatments can provide good to excellent relief from symptoms for a number of years.
The goal of treatment for achalasia focuses on weakening the esophageal sphincter so that food and liquid can pass into the stomach more easily. Read more about achalasia treatment options.
Achalasia can occur at any age, but is more common in adults over 25. It does not run in families. Symptoms develop gradually and it may be years before patients seek medical treatment. Approximately 2,000 new cases of achalasia are diagnosed each year in the United States.
Read more about esophageal disorders at
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