Strangulation sensation after ACDF

[Lovingradiance]

I recently had an ACDF surgery on my C6-C7. I have no pain and am generally doing fine.
However, I have this strangulation sensation. I can't find ANY information on this.
I have found information on difficulty swallowing, but I need to know if the actual sensation of strangulation goes away or if there is something specific I should be doing to help with it.
I suffer from a paranoia of dying caused by being unable to breathe, I am waking up repeatedly at night from this sensation and having several panic attacks every day due to this as well.
I am able to eat normal foods as long as I take small bites, so this isn't inhibiting my eating significantly. It's simply causing severe anxiety and depression issues.
I've searched every word I can think of and none of what I found specifically addresses this sensation.

Suggestions would be greatly appreciated, I'd prefer not to take more medications unnecessarily, but I am not sure I can go on like this...

[PennyW13]

I am 2 years post ACDF and still occasionally have that feeling.  I tell my doctor that it feels like I have on a t-shirt that is too tight in the neck and he says that it could be inflammation of some kind.  When it gets like that he gives me a Medrol Dosepak and though I dislike taking steroids, it seems to be the only thing that helps.

[Rolltide62]

I had same surgery March 2013. I just saw one of the best neurologist. He told me he thinks it is hyperventilating caused from panic to strangulation sensation. I also pass out.

[lauura175]

I am having the exact same effects after the surgery and am wondering if you have received any relief?