Understanding and Managing Achalasia Cardia with Homeopathy
Achalasia cardia is a rare condition affecting the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. This disorder impairs the esophageal muscles, causing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to struggle with relaxation. As a result, the LES doesn’t open properly to let food pass into the stomach. While homeopathy may offer relief for mild to moderate cases, its role is limited for severe cases where conventional treatments might be necessary. Common homeopathic remedies include Alumina, Kali Carb, and Lachesis, among others.
What is Achalasia Cardia?
The esophagus has two key sphincters: the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) at the top, and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) at the bottom. These sphincters relax to allow food to pass through and then close to prevent backflow. In achalasia cardia, the muscles of the esophagus don’t contract properly, preventing food from moving into the stomach. Additionally, the part of the esophagus above the LES may start to dilate.
Homeopathic Management of Achalasia Cardia
Homeopathy can help manage symptoms of achalasia cardia, but it’s important to note that for severe cases, conventional treatment methods should be considered. Homeopathic remedies aim to alleviate symptoms based on individual characteristics. Some of the well-suited remedies include:
- Alumina: Ideal for those who have trouble swallowing solids. This remedy is helpful when food feels stuck in the esophagus, causing a sensation of a lump in the throat.
- Kali Carb: Useful when food gets stuck in the esophagus and causes a slow passage or lodging halfway down. It can also alleviate stinging pain and potential vomiting after eating.
- Lachesis: Effective when swallowing liquids is more difficult than swallowing solids. This remedy helps when liquids tend to back up and return through the nose, accompanied by a constant lump sensation in the throat.
- Phosphorus: Best for cases with food regurgitation and heartburn. This remedy addresses the sensation of food coming back up soon after swallowing, along with nausea and burning in the esophagus.
- Robinia: Helpful for severe heartburn, especially at night when lying down, and accompanied by vomiting of sour fluid.
- Carbo Veg: Effective for heartburn with sour or putrid belching. It can also address cases where vomiting of food is present.
Causes and Risk Factors
Achalasia cardia is believed to be caused by damage to the nerves controlling the esophagus. This nerve damage may result from an autoimmune process or viral infection, though the exact cause is not fully understood. Older adults are more likely to develop this condition, and, in rare cases, it may be hereditary.
Symptoms to Watch For
The primary symptom of achalasia cardia is difficulty swallowing, which worsens over time. This can progress to the point where food cannot enter the stomach at all. Common symptoms include:
- A sensation of food or liquid sticking in the esophagus or a lump in the throat.
- Heartburn and chest discomfort.
- Regurgitation of food or liquids.
- Coughing and frequent choking episodes.
- Gradual weight loss in some cases.
