A 28-year-old male asked:
I have problems sleeping at night especially on a full stomach. i wake up gasping for air and heart racing. also a tightness in my chest. any ideas?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Patrick Kohlitzanswered
Internal Medicine 13 years experience
Sleep Apnea/Asthma: Your symptoms are suspicious for a condition called sleep apnea which happens when your breathing pattern is disrupted during sleep. Also, asthma can present in a similar manner. Sleep apnea is usually associated with overweight patients and asthma is normally associated with wheezing. Luckily, both are easily treatable, see your primary care doctor for treatment options.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Jerome Zacksanswered
Cardiology 53 years experience
Needs evaluation.: This merits a visit to ones doctor for a careful history and physical exam. It's necessary to distinguish between potential gi, pulmonary and cardiac causes of such symptoms. A careful medical exam can usually provide the answers.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
2 comments
Dr. Hanul Bhandari commented
Internal Medicine - Sleep Medicine 15 years experience
Agreed with the esteemed doctor above. Also, sleep apnea may present as such. If you snore, have dry mouth, excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and/or morning headaches, it may be a possibility. Please visit your doctor and if they believe it is of benefit, they may refer you to a sleep medicine specialist. Hope that helps!
Apr 14, 2014
Dr. Jerome Zacks commented
Cardiology 53 years experience
Provided original answer
Dr Bhandari's note is right on target!
Apr 14, 2014
Last updated Apr 14, 2014
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.