Gasping for Air

  Sometimes when I sleep during the night I wake up gasping for air. I have to immediately sit up or stand up and slowly try to hold my breathe so that the liquid can go back down. If I gasp for air to much the liquid will just stay there and I find myself helpless trying to get air. It is sometimes scary at times because it is so hard for the liquid that is in my throat to go down. I know the liquid is coming from my stomach but the force is so extreme that it actually chokes me.

  I do not have any stomach pains or heartburn at all. I do pass a lot of gas. I am considerably healthy 6'2" 190 pounds.

  I have read many of the post here but have not read any with choking and gasping for air. I hope recieve some kind of professional opinion and if anybody else has or had this.

Thank You,

Ray

[Kevin Pho, MD]

It is difficult to say without evaluation.

If there is concern about GERD or other upper GI diseases that may lead to this picture, an upper endoscopy can be considered.  Sometimes a hiatal hernia can lead to reflux of acid that can cause choking symptoms.

Non-GI causes can be evaluated with an ENT referral to look for any throat obstruction.  

A sleep study can also be considered to rule out apnea.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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