I have episodes of what seems like a compulsive throat activity similar to "snorting" or trying to clear the upper nasal passages of mucus, but it happens whether or not I have mucus to clear. It interferes with the normal inhalation and exhalation, sometimes leading to a seizure of those muscles and an inability to breathe. I can get past this by consciously stopping it. I have had these episodes since as early as 20 yo, and I'm 71 now. They come and go and I wonder if there's a seasonal allergic component. They don't interfere with everyday activity, but they make eating and talking difficult and uncomfortable.