PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the most common symptom of achalasia?

1. Dysphagia for solids only

2. Chest pain

3. Regurgitation of liquids

4. Dysphagia for solids and liquids

The correct answer is: Dysphagia for solids and liquids

Achalasia is a disorder of the esophagus characterized by the inability of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax properly, leading to difficulty in swallowing. The hallmark symptom of achalasia is dysphagia, which refers to the sensation of difficulty swallowing. In this condition, patients experience dysphagia for both solids and liquids, reflecting the underlying issue that affects the esophagus's ability to process any type of food or drink. Patients with achalasia often report a progressive difficulty in swallowing as the condition worsens, which includes both solid foods, like bread and meat, and liquids, such as water. This is due to the loss of peristalsis in the esophagus and the persistent contraction of the lower esophageal sphincter, resulting in a blockage that prevents normal swallowing regardless of the consistency of the ingested material. Other symptoms, such as chest pain or regurgitation, may occur but are not as common as the primary symptom of dysphagia for both solids and liquids. Regurgitation in particular can happen especially after eating but does not represent the primary difficulty faced by patients. The specificity of dysphagia for both solids and liquids distinguishes achalasia from other esophageal conditions, reinforcing its status as