achalasia doctors near me

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Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Achalasia treatment

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Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Achalasia

Achalasia, a rare disorder affecting the esophagus, significantly impacts one's ability to swallow food and liquids. The condition stems from nerve cells in the esophagus losing their function over time, resulting in decreased motility and the inability of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax. With an estimated incidence of 1 in 100,000 people per year, Achalasia remains relatively uncommon, but it poses substantial challenges for those affected, significantly impacting their quality of life.

Causes

The exact cause of Achalasia remains unknown. Researchers believe it may be due to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Autoimmune reactions, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the esophagus, may contribute to the loss of nerve cells. Infections and hereditary factors have also been considered as possible contributors to the development of Achalasia.

Signs and symptoms

- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) both liquids and solids - Sensation of food being stuck in the chest - Regurgitation of undigested food - Chest pain, which may be mistaken for heart attack pain - Weight loss due to eating difficulties - Cough, especially at night - Heartburn

Diagnosing Achalasia

Diagnosing Achalasia involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and specialized tests. These may include: - Barium swallow: An X-ray study where the patient swallows a barium solution, allowing for the visualization of the esophagus. - Esophageal manometry: A test measuring the rhythmic muscle contractions of the esophagus and the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. - Endoscopy: A procedure using a flexible tube with a camera to look inside the esophagus and stomach, helping rule out other conditions that mimic Achalasia.

Prevention and natural treatment

There's currently no known method to prevent Achalasia, focusing instead on relieving symptoms and improving the ability to eat and drink. In the realm of functional medicine and natural treatments, several approaches aim to complement traditional treatments: - Dietary changes: Eating softer foods and taking small bites can help. Some individuals find relief in eating in an upright position and drinking plenty of liquids with meals. - Acupuncture: Though more research is needed, some patients report symptom relief with acupuncture, possibly due to its effects on esophageal motility. - Herbal remedies: Peppermint oil capsules may help relax the lower esophageal sphincter. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially for conditions like Achalasia. - Chiropractic care: There’s anecdotal evidence that adjustments addressing the nervous system may benefit some individuals with Achalasia, though clinical evidence is limited. While these natural approaches can provide relief, they should complement, not replace, the treatments prescribed by healthcare professionals, such as pneumatic dilation, Botox injections, or surgery. Collaboration with a healthcare team specialized in Achalasia, including gastroenterologists and dietitians, is crucial for managing the condition effectively.

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