Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 28: At 24, Vishal Raj appeared to live a normal social life, but behind the scenes, even simple acts like eating and drinking had become a daily challenge. For over four years, he experienced severe difficulty swallowing, with food often getting stuck in his esophagus. Meals turned into slow, uncomfortable experiences, leading him to gradually avoid eating in social settings out of embarrassment.

Like many, Vishal initially dismissed his symptoms as acidity or a minor digestive issue, hoping they would resolve on their own. However, as the condition persisted, a detailed medical evaluation revealed that he was suffering from Achalasia Cardia Type II—a rare condition where the lower esophageal sphincter fails to relax properly, preventing food from passing smoothly into the stomach. Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, regurgitation, and unintended weight loss.

Seeking effective treatment, Vishal consulted Dr Veerendra Sandur at Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road. He was advised to undergo Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM), a minimally invasive procedure that involves cutting specific muscles in the lower esophagus to improve swallowing.

The results were immediate and life-changing. For the first time in years, Vishal could eat and drink without discomfort. Post-procedure tests confirmed there were no complications, and he was discharged with guidance on diet and recovery.

Why Awareness Matters

Many people ignore persistent swallowing issues, assuming they are caused by minor digestive problems. However, delaying medical attention can worsen conditions like achalasia, potentially leading to severe weight loss, an enlarged esophagus, or even food entering the lungs.

When to Seek Medical Help

Symptoms that should not be ignored include:
• Ongoing difficulty in swallowing
• Frequent regurgitation of food
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chest pain while eating

While achalasia cannot always be prevented, early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications.

Dr Sandur emphasised that persistent symptoms should never be overlooked, especially when they interfere with daily activities like eating. Modern treatments such as POEM offer effective and minimally invasive solutions, enabling patients to regain normalcy quickly.

Reflecting on his recovery, Vishal shared that he can now enjoy meals without hesitation or discomfort—something he hadn’t experienced in years.

His journey is a reminder that the body often signals problems early. Paying attention to these signs and seeking timely medical care can not only resolve serious health issues but also restore confidence and quality of life.