A 24-year-old man, Vishal Raj, who had always been socially active, endured over four years of difficulty swallowing food and liquids. Every meal became a slow, anxious ordeal as food seemed to get stuck in his esophagus. Embarrassed by his condition, he began eating less in social settings.
Initially dismissing his symptoms as mere gastric issues or acidity, Vishal tried various remedies without improvement. After a comprehensive examination, doctors diagnosed him with Achalasia Cardia Type II, an extremely rare disease affecting the esophagus. In this condition, the lower esophageal sphincter fails to relax during swallowing, causing food to accumulate in the esophagus. Common symptoms include trouble swallowing, chest pain, and weight loss.
Dr. Veerendra Sandur, Consultant in Medical Gastroenterology at Manipal Hospital, Kanakapura Road, recommended Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM), an advanced minimally invasive treatment offered at the hospital for the first time. The procedure involves making incisions in specific muscles of the lower esophagus to allow food to pass more easily.
The treatment was successful, providing Vishal with immediate relief. For the first time in years, he could consume liquids and meals without hesitation or discomfort. Imaging tests confirmed no leaks or complications, and he was discharged with dietary and activity guidance.
Why Awareness About Achalasia Is Important
Many people ignore swallowing difficulties, attributing them to indigestion or acidity. Delaying medical care can worsen the condition over time. Timely treatment can significantly improve outcomes. Untreated achalasia can lead to severe weight loss, an enlarged esophagus, or food entering the lungs.
Prevention and When to Seek Help
Achalasia is not always preventable, but seeking medical attention can prevent complications. Symptoms that require medical evaluation include persistent difficulty swallowing, frequent regurgitation of undigested food, unexplained weight loss, and chest pain while eating. If symptoms persist, consulting a doctor is essential.
Good eating habits, eating slowly, and undergoing medical tests can help manage the condition. Dr. Sandur emphasized, "Many people tend to ignore persistent symptoms, hoping they will resolve on their own. However, when it comes to conditions like achalasia, timely medical attention can save lives. We want people to understand that persistent symptoms should be taken seriously, especially if they make basic routines like eating difficult. With modern, minimally invasive techniques like POEM, we can offer immediate and profound relief."
Vishal expressed gratitude to the medical staff, saying, "I was able to eat and drink normally and enjoy meals without hesitation or discomfort for the first time in years." His experience serves as a reminder that with early diagnosis, even complicated gastrointestinal problems can be effectively treated using both open and minimally invasive procedures. Sometimes the body whispers before it begins to scream. Enduring seemingly minor symptoms can be early indicators of more serious health issues. Vishal's story illustrates that timely assistance can not only address a problem but also restore confidence, comfort, and quality of life.
