Hi, I have Achalasia

I was diagnosed when I was 17-years old and had the Heller Myotomy surgery in 2009. Although I continued to experience esophageal spasms and acid reflux, the surgery was a great success. The last five years I was able to enjoy food and experience life with fewer complications.

However, lately I haven't been doing well. I started feeling more intense spasms from my esophagus back in March of this year. I thought it could be my eating habits, but even with alterations, I continued to feel the intense pain in my lower esophagus.

In June I had an endoscopy procedure, however, my doctor did not see any kind of blockage occurring. Ironically, this is exactly what happened five years ago when I had my first endoscopy. He stretched my esophagus and told me to watch it carefully. But despite the stretching I continued to feel the difficulties while eating and drinking.

In July I had a barium swallow where the radiologist informed me that my esophagus was not draining properly and it seems that the effects from the Heller Myotomy were no longer aiding me. Fun fact: same situation happened five years ago when I had my first barium swallow and was informed I might need surgery.

I am now waiting for the hospital to call me to schedule an esophageal manometry to determine whether or not I need another Heller Myotomy.

I was warned that the Heller Myotomy's effects can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years, but I never imagined I would be in the exact same spot I was in when I was 17-years old. This diary's purpose is to help me keep track of my diet and how I feel on a day-to-day bases. I also hope to help someone else out there with Achalasia to feel less alone.

Here's to optimism and good health.