How is achalasia diagnosed?

Three tests are performed to diagnose achalasia. They are:

(a) Endoscopy (oesophagogastroduodenoscopy)

• A flexible scope is passed into the oesophagus to rule out other causes of dysphagia such as tumours/growths.

(b) Barium swallow

• A specialised x-ray of the passage of the swallowed barium down the oesophagus.

(c) High resolution manometry

• A test that measures the pressure, timing and contractions of the oesophagus as well as the lower oesophageal sphincter relaxation.
• It helps to confirm and determine the subtype of achalasia.