How Serious Is Achalasia

Is achalasia serious? Yes, it can be, especially if it goes untreated. If you have achalasia, you’ll gradually experience increased trouble eating solid foods and drinking liquids. Achalasia can cause considerable weight loss and malnutrition.

How long can you live with achalasia?

In group A, the estimated 20-year survival rates in patients with achalasia [76% (95% confidence interval (CI): 66-85%)] did not significantly differ from those in controls 80% (95% CI: 71-89%). In group B, 25-year survival rates were also similar in patients [87% (95% CI: 78-97%)] and controls [86% (95% CI: 76-97%)].

Does achalasia get worse over time?

Achalasia is a rare disease that affects the muscles of the esophagus, also called the swallowing tube or food pipe. One of the first symptoms of achalasia is trouble swallowing, also called dysphasia. Achalasia can get worse over time, so it’s important to see a doctor at the first sign of symptoms.