Also described as: “Khana atakna, nigalne mein dikkat”
Common symptoms
- Food or liquids sticking in the chest
- Regurgitation of undigested food
- Chest pain while eating
- Night-time cough
- Weight loss
See a doctor promptly if
- Progressive difficulty swallowing solids
- Weight loss
- Unable to swallow saliva — seek urgent care
Difficulty swallowing always needs evaluation
Causes range from reflux-related narrowing and eosinophilic oesophagitis to motility disorders such as achalasia — and occasionally cancer. An endoscopy is the first test.
Achalasia
In achalasia, the muscle at the lower end of the food pipe fails to relax. Diagnosis is confirmed with oesophageal manometry. Treatment options include balloon dilatation, surgery (Heller myotomy) and POEM — an endoscopic procedure Dr. Kalia trained in at a premier centre in China.
How we can help
Upper GI EndoscopyA high-definition camera examination of the food pipe, stomach and duodenum to find the cause of acidity, pain, bleeding or swallowing trouble.
POEM / Third-Space EndoscopyEndoscopic treatment for achalasia (POEM) and removal of early cancers (ESD) by working within the layers of the gut wall.
Diagnostic TestsThe right test for the right question — from H. pylori and liver panels to oesophageal and anorectal manometry.
Frequently asked questions
It should always be checked, particularly if it is progressive or associated with weight loss.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shivam Kalia MBBS, MD (Medicine), DM (Gastroenterology) · Consultant Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist