Achalasia causes: Difference between revisions
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As a result, the wave-like contractions of smooth muscles that normally force food through the esophagus and other parts of the digestive tract do not work as well | As a result, the wave-like contractions (peristalsis) of smooth muscles that normally force food through the esophagus and other parts of the digestive tract do not work as well. Achalasia is a rare disorder. It may occur at any age, but is most common in middle-aged or older adults. | ||
==References== | ==References== | ||
Revision as of 17:10, 27 August 2012
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Overview
Causes
The main problem in achalasia is a failure of the a muscular ring where the esophagus and stomach come together (lower esophageal sphincter) to relax during swallowing.
Another part of the disorder is a lack of nerve stimulation to the muscles of the esophagus. Causes include:
- Cancers
- Damage to the nerves of the esophagus
- Infection with a parasite
- Inherited factors
As a result, the wave-like contractions (peristalsis) of smooth muscles that normally force food through the esophagus and other parts of the digestive tract do not work as well. Achalasia is a rare disorder. It may occur at any age, but is most common in middle-aged or older adults.