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ACHALASIA AND ESOPHAGEAL MOTILITY DISORDERS |
 | | It is characterized by the absence of muscular contractions in the lower half of the esophagus and by failure of the valve at the bottom of the esophagus to open and let food into the stomach. |
 | | Motility disorders are persistent problems, usually lasting months or years, so if you experience only a brief episode of symptoms it is unlikely that you have a true esophageal motility disorder. |
 | | Motility problems are sometimes suspected if the physician identifies a muscular narrowing at the level of the valve between the esophagus and stomach, changes in the appearance of the lining of the esophagus, or the finding of retained food in the esophagus. |
| www.sts.org /doc/4120 (1189 words) |