Swallowing is a complicated procedure. Food and drink move down the gullet or oesophagus not only by the force of gravity but by active muscular contractions.
Swallowing involves a wave-like activation of the muscles of the gullet so that the food or fluid is forced onwards.
Dysphagia is difficulty in swallowing and may be due to many causes. One of which is called achalasia.
This is more common in the middle-aged and affects women more than men. It comes on slowly and symptoms are usually present for many years before the sufferer seeks help.
The cause is unknown but there appears to be some muscular inco-ordination at the lower end of the gullet.
Swallowing is difficult and there is often regurgitation of food. X-ray and direct inspection of the gullet by inserting a tube to look at the gullet lining will usually confirm diagnosis.
Stretching up the tightened area at the lower end of the gullet may bring relief or an operation may be required.
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