Incomplete breathing

[swimgirl]

It often feels as if I cannot take a full breath. I have had exercise induced asthma all of my life, I take an inhaler as needed, (pretty rarely) and have always been an athlete (primarily tennis and running).  Recently, I have felt as if I cannot get a full breath--I practice breathing from the diaphragm and often this will produce a yawn, which aids in getting at least a better breath.  I am quite puzzled because I have recently taken up swimming, and find that swimming can get my breathing straightened back out--the incomplete breaths often just go away while I am in the pool. The problem is, they can quickly return, and I wonder why they may start in the first place.  
     I wonder if I might have a hiatal hernia, and, if so, how this might interact with these symptoms.  I do have occasional GERD, but have pretty much controlled it by avoiding overeating, not eating fast, etc.  If I bend at the waist (cleaning the floor, etc.), the incomplete breathing does tend to return.  Basically, I would just like some input on what might be causing these breathing issues.  I am healthy, of normal weight, and have always been quite active physically.  I am, however, under a good deal of stress--although I do notice a correlation of the symptoms with times of high demand, I do not think they are retricted to those occasions.  I appreciate any input on what might be causing these symptoms.

[yappy58]

I have these symptoms too!  Unlike you swimgirl, I have not always been active. In fact, just started running/lifting/etc about 2 years ago. I started noticing this about a year in.  I'll admit, I was taking diet pills when I first noticed them. I stopped immediately, but still get the problem quite frequently. Additionally, I notice that the feeling increases when I consume caffeine.  Have any of you gotten a diagnosis yet?

[ggupta5]

Hi, i have very similar symptoms to what you have described - not short of breath but feel incomplete breath accompanied by lots of yawning (which also feels stuck at times). Curious if you found the cause and more importantly cure for this. Will really appreciate knowing about your experience. You can write to me at ***@****

Thanks

[lairdy]

I am almost relieved to hear that somebody else is experiencing the same symptoms that I am.
Everything that you descibed is how I am feeling at the moment. I had a similar experience 6 months ago and after 2 trips to the docs they thought I was just "thinking about my breathing too much". Seemed to correct itself after about 4 weeks.
Like you I have always been active.
Will let you know if I get any results. PLease do the same as I am feeling a bit helpless.

[GravesLady]

I don't know what is causing your breathing problems, but, have you practiced daily yoga breathing.

If all else fails, a doctors diagnose would be good.

Good luck - Good breathing!

GL