Achalasia is hereditary?

Patient's question:

No

Doctor's answer:

Esophageal Dilation Therapy
This involves using balloons or dilators to relax the connection between the esophagus and the stomach. Under fluoroscopy, a dilator is inserted through the mouth with a balloon in front, guiding it into the stomach while the balloon is positioned at the connection between the esophagus and the stomach. Air or fluid is injected until chest pain occurs, at which point injection is stopped. The dilator is left in place for 5–10 minutes before being removed. After a single treatment, a 5-year follow-up showed an efficacy rate of 60%–80%. The criteria for effectiveness are the disappearance of difficulty swallowing and the ability to return to normal diet. However, this therapy carries a risk of esophageal rupture, ranging from 1% to 6%, so it should be performed with caution.