K23: Disorders of oesophagus in diseases classified elsewhere
K23.1: Megaoesophagus in Chagas disease
The esophagus or gullet connects the mouth with the stomach. It is a muscular tube. The muscles in the esophagus move food into the stomach. The muscles of the gullet are controlled by nerves. The nerves influence how strongly the gullet contracts or relaxes.
You have been infected with a specific pathogen. This pathogen has caused the nerves in your gullet to be damaged. Because the nerves are no longer working properly, the muscles in the gullet are also no longer functioning. Your gullet has thus become severely dilated.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.