Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Treatment For Difficulty Breathing And Speech Disorder
Question: I have episodes where my throat seems to completely close. I can't breathe in or out and cannot speak. It lasts for a minute or so. It happens in the middle of the night mostly but it has happened during the day. This has been happening for several years. It is terrifying. My throat afterwards is extremely sore and my chest also. I often thought it might have been damage to the nerves during my thyroidectormy when I was young.
Brief Answer:
seems to be GERD (GASTRO ESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE)
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I had gone through your question and understand your concerns that you are having breathing and speech problem.
As per your clinical details, it appears to be GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease).
GERD, which is common with aging, where partially digested contents can regurgitate into esophagus (burning chest) or into voice box (voice abnormally or hoarse voice) or can cause cough or breathing abnormality (lungs).
I suggest the following as preventive measures.
1. take ppi inhibitors with pro kinetics (pantoprazole +domperidone) twice daily half an hour before food.
2. keep 3 hours interval between dinner and sleep.
3. take small frequent 6 meals instead of large 3.
4. avoid spicy or carbonated beverages.
5. stop smoking or alcohol (if you are with these habits)
6. head end elevation(extra pillow during the sleeping posture to prevent regurgitation).
7. timely meals.
8. stop mucinex.
As such, There is no relation between old thyroidectomy and present complaints.
In case of persistent symptoms, you need to see an ent surgeon to rule out other causes.
If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
Wishing you good health.
seems to be GERD (GASTRO ESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE)
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I had gone through your question and understand your concerns that you are having breathing and speech problem.
As per your clinical details, it appears to be GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease).
GERD, which is common with aging, where partially digested contents can regurgitate into esophagus (burning chest) or into voice box (voice abnormally or hoarse voice) or can cause cough or breathing abnormality (lungs).
I suggest the following as preventive measures.
1. take ppi inhibitors with pro kinetics (pantoprazole +domperidone) twice daily half an hour before food.
2. keep 3 hours interval between dinner and sleep.
3. take small frequent 6 meals instead of large 3.
4. avoid spicy or carbonated beverages.
5. stop smoking or alcohol (if you are with these habits)
6. head end elevation(extra pillow during the sleeping posture to prevent regurgitation).
7. timely meals.
8. stop mucinex.
As such, There is no relation between old thyroidectomy and present complaints.
In case of persistent symptoms, you need to see an ent surgeon to rule out other causes.
If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
Wishing you good health.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
