Is Achalasia A Rare Condition? Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik Sheds Light

KOLKATA, India - Oct. 24, 2025 - PRLog -- For many, difficulty in swallowing is often attributed to esophageal strictures or GERD; however, many are not aware that the symptom can indicate a far more complex disorder, referred to as achalasia cardia.

It is considered a rare condition or, more precisely, misdiagnosed for its symptoms with other conditions. Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik, a leading surgeon for carrying out achalasia cardia treatment, provides his insights on the condition, as he believes that awareness is the first step towards its effective management.

"Achalasia cardia is not a common condition in medicine. Doctors usually do not encounter patients with this esophageal smooth muscle motility disorder. However, for those affected, it significantly affects the quality of life," says Dr. Bhowmik.

Patients with achalasia cardia find it extremely difficult to pass down solids and liquids into the stomach. It mainly occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) fails to relax properly and the muscles lose their ability to contract. As a result, individuals suffer from a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, such as the following.

1. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
2. Regurgitation of undigested food
3. Chest pain or discomfort
4. Unintended weight loss
5. Chronic coughing, especially at night

The above signs are very similar to GERD or acid reflux. Hence, individuals keep receiving multiple treatments with no improvement in symptoms.

"Over the years, patients go from one doctor to another, seeking the wrong treatment. There are several diagnostic tools, like high-resolution manometry (HRM), endoscopy, and barium meal examination, for early detection of the condition, " Dr. Bhowmik further added.

There are no permanent treatment approaches for achalasia cardia. Once the muscles are paralysed, they cannot work again. However, there are various effective techniques that can manage the condition.

Previously, achalasia cardia treatment mainly focused on medications and dilatations. However, advancements in medical technology have given rise to minimally invasive surgical procedures. One of them is Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy (LHM), where the LES circular muscle fibres are cut and divided to allow the smoother passage of food.

"Laparoscopic Heller's myotomy is effective for achalasia cardia. It's minimally invasive, requires a short hospital stay, and offers long-lasting relief," states Dr. Bhowmik.

Dr. Bhowmik stresses the importance of increased awareness about achalasia for the right treatment and to avoid years of discomfort.

Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik

Dr. Purnendu Bhowmik is a leading GI surgeon with adept skills in laparoscopy and laser techniques. With a focus on minimally invasive techniques, he has helped countless patients achieve relief from complex disorders like achalasia cardia. His knowledge of the latest surgical technology and patient-centric care earned him a trusted name among patients.

Know more: https://www.clinicahealth.in/achalasia-cardia/