Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy Treatment in India

Sarah Garcia, a 42-year-old high school...

Sarah Garcia, a 42-year-old high school Spanish teacher and mother of two, had been struggling for over three years. Her journey began with the simple annoyance of food feeling 'stuck' in her chest, which escalated into severe chest pain, regurgitation of undigested food, and significant weight loss. She was constantly sipping water to push meals down and had stopped eating in public out of embarrassment. After numerous tests, including a barium swallow and manometry, she was diagnosed with achalasia. Her gastroenterologist, Dr. Lee, explained that her lower esophageal sphincter wouldn't relax, trapping food. He recommended POEM as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery, highlighting its precision and quicker recovery. Sarah was terrified but desperate for relief. The procedure itself was under general anesthesia. She remembers nothing of the POEM but woke up with a sore throat. The first 48 hours on a liquid diet were challenging, but within a week, she ate soft foods without pain for the first time in years. By her one-month follow-up, she had regained 10 pounds and could enjoy a family dinner. Emotionally, she transitioned from a state of constant anxiety and isolation to one of profound gratitude and regained joy. She feels like she has her life back and is planning a 'food adventure' vacation with her family.