This is a condition resulting from motility disorders of the esophagus ranging from absent peristalsis to hyperperistalsis and spasm.

Diffuse esophageal spasm typically causes substernal chest pain in association with difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia) of both liquids and solids. The pain may be severe and may awaken the patient from sleep. Liquids that are very hot or cold may aggravate the pain.

With time, this disorder may evolve into achalasia (failure to relax smooth muscle fibers of the...