Achalasia

Overview

Three tests are commonly used to diagnose achalasia:

Barium swallow: For this test, you’ll swallow a barium preparation (liquid or other form) and its movement through your esophagus is evaluated using X-rays. The barium swallow will show a narrowing of the esophagus at the LES.

Upper endoscopy: In this test, a flexible, narrow tube with a camera on it – called an endoscope – is passed down your esophagus. The camera projects images of the inside of your esophagus onto a screen for evaluation. This test helps rule out cancerous (malignant) lesions as well as assess for achalasia.

Manometry: This test measures the timing and strength of your esophageal muscle contractions and relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Failure of the LES to relax in response to swallowing and lack of muscle contractions along the walls of the esophagus is a positive test for achalasia. This is the “gold standard” test for diagnosing achalasia.

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Symptoms

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Mayo Clinic Staff

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Diagnosis & treatment

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