Oesophageal motility disorders affect the way the oesophagus moves food and liquids towards the stomach. These conditions may cause difficulty swallowing, chest discomfort, regurgitation or the sensation that food is becoming stuck.
Symptoms and conditions assessed
Difficulty swallowing solids, liquids or both (dysphagia)
Chest discomfort not explained by heart disease
Regurgitation of undigested food, or food feeling stuck
Achalasia, where the lower oesophageal sphincter does not relax normally
Oesophageal spasm and other disordered contraction patterns
Reflux symptoms that persist despite treatment, where motility may be involved
When to seek assessment, and how it is investigated
1A specialist consultation is appropriate when swallowing difficulty is persistent or progressive, when food repeatedly sticks, or when symptoms are accompanied by weight loss
2Gastroscopy to look directly at the oesophagus and stomach and to exclude other causes
3Oesophageal manometry to measure pressure and muscle coordination, and a contrast swallow study where indicated
4pH-impedance monitoring where reflux may be contributing to the symptoms
Management and follow-up
Available management depends on the diagnosis and on individual patient assessment. Options may include medication, endoscopic treatment or surgery, and the benefits, risks and expected recovery of each are explained to you before any decision is made. No specific outcome can be guaranteed.
This information is general and does not replace a consultation. No outcome can be guaranteed, and the approach appropriate for you is confirmed only after a full specialist assessment by Dr Motheo T. Zimba.