Patients May Feel Embarrassed

"When these functions are disrupted, a person will struggle to swallow," he says.

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The exact cause of achalasia remains unknown, says Prof Ong, but it is likely that some patients have a genetic predisposition to the condition. It may also be triggered by viral infections and/or autoimmune diseases.

The hold-up of food in the oesophagus causes chemical irritation in the surrounding area, and the patient may have symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease such as heartburn, regurgitation or chest pain.

The symptoms can also be extremely uncomfortable, especially the chest pain during meals, which can sometimes be mistaken for heart attacks, highlights Prof Ong.

At SGH, approximately two to three cases of achalasia are diagnosed each month, amounting to about 30 cases a year.

Ms Chai says achalasia is rarely seen in patients at AH, although no statistics are available.

CONDITIONS TAKE A TOLL ON MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH

Although the causes differ, dysphagia and achalasia make the simple act of eating and drinking a daily challenge.