Q: My 45 yr old father has been found to have achalasia cardia. The barium swallow report is as follows: The oesophagus is dilated and shows narrowing in the distal segment. No flow seen in the supine position. On erect position trickling of the barium is noted. The narrowed segment measures 4 centimeters in length. Tertiary contraction in the rest of oesophagus. The doctor suggested surgery or baloon blasting for this. Can you please suggest an alternative or is surgery imperative?

A:If the diagnosis is achalasia cardia as you have mentioned, the only treatment is balloon dilatation or surgery. There is no oral cure.