Well, for me I had other gastro issues before I had sympotoms of achalasia. I knew something was terribly wrong when I had difficulty swallowing. I would choke and vomit on almost all foods. I had to drink small sips of liquid in order for it to go down. I definitely cannot "chug" any liquids! Also, I experience frequent chest pain. Docs thought it was a symptom of acid reflux but now they know it is associated with my diagnosis of achalasia. I have had balloon dilations with very little/no help. I am currently on a liquid/very soft food diet until I decide which treatment is best for me. Treatment options can include: dilations, medications, botox injections, surgery.