Q: Hi I am sick when I sleep, it wakes me with loss of breath as I am chocking with acidic strong sickness burning my throat. I cannot breath for between 30 - 40 seconds I feel like I am dying.
It is very possible that you are having a reflux induced asthma attack. Basically the acid comes up and your airway goes into a protective spasm.
My concern is that you have done your homework. You are diligently doing all of the preventive things that can be done but yet you are still having pretty severe episodes.These episodes are not only scary but can be doing damage to your throat, esophagus, nasal passages, teeth, etc.
Because the preventive things aren't working - it may be time to see a doctor to discuss your options.
Stephanie
Simon, the exact same thing happens to me and it IS very scarey. I wake from a dead sleep gasping for air, then I sit up as quickly as possible. Once that did not work and I began to panic which woke the whole house up with my loud whooping for breath. When you are able to get your breath again, there is that nasty burning bubble at the base of your throat. Don't try to clear it, that just makes it worse and then you puke. What a lovely night (and I take Prevacid) Guess I should go to the Dr. too, but I don't wanna! Good luck with yours!
Hi I found by a change in diet and losing weight it does not happen very often now. I no longer eat cheese, so goodbye pizza's and greasey mexican food - I guess it was the pizza with me. I drink a milk shake before I go to bed so I know that it is not all dairy products. I sleep with an extra pillow and feel much better...but at the back of my mind I know it will happen again.
I dont really want to see a doctor as they will probably prescribe a normal antiacid antegestion drink or tablets which I could buy in the supermarket.
I hope that you get better so lose the cheese and use an extra pillow - I really think this will help. I really do not want you to go through it again - It's so scary. If you want to talk incase I have forgotten somthing email me at mrwonderfull me at hotmail dot com. Take care Simon
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
10 Foods to Avoid with Acid Reflux 
Five Drinks to Avoid With Acid Reflux 
Six Natural Remedies for Heartburn 
Seven Symptoms of Acid Reflux Featuring Content From:
- About Us |
- Contact Us |
- Privacy Policy |
- Terms of Use |
- Security Policy |
- Advertising Policy |
- Advertise With Us
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2013 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Thank you for your help, you may be right with the asthma as I get hayfever in the summer months. I will book in with my Doctor, thank you again.
Regards
Simon