Medical history (history of illness) represents an important component in the diagnosis of achalasia.
Family history
Social history
Current anamnesis/systemic anamnesis (somatic and psychological complaints).
- Do you suffer from difficulty swallowing? If yes:
- How long have these existed?
- Do these exist continuously or episodically?
- Do you have dysphagia only with solid food or also with liquid food?
- Do you have pain when swallowing?
- Does the dysphagia occur in all body positions* or only when lying down, sitting, etc.?
- Do you have to gag when eating?
- Do you choke frequently?
- Do you have a lumpy/strange feeling in your throat?
- Do you cough more than before?
- Do you suffer from pain in the chest or abdomen?* .
- Do you have / have you had heartburn / acid regurgitation?
- Are you suffering or have you suffered from pneumonia? How often?
- Do you take longer to eat than before?
- Do you suffer from bad breath?
- Do you feel a burning sensation in the chest area?
- Does it feel like you have cramps in the chest area?
Vegetative history including nutritional history.
- Have you lost body weight unintentionally? If so, how much in what time?
- Do you eat a balanced diet?
Self history incl. medication history
- Pre-existing conditions (neck tumors, gastrointestinal disorders, neurological disorders, infections, etc.).
- Operations
- Radiotherapy
- Allergies
- Medication history
* If this question has been answered with “Yes”, an immediate visit to the doctor is required! (Information without guarantee)
