I'm having trouble catching a refreshing breath -- saw my family doc and she referred me to a pulm. -- ruled out asthma, etc. thought it was stress related (probably so)... but i'm not getting any relief. i'm on meds for stress, but obviously they aren't

It : It sounds like a physical cause has been mostly ruled out. Depending on which medications you have been given for anxiety, keep in mind that these can sometimes take a few weeks to start making a difference. Also, anxiety disorders sometimes require higher doses. Please be certain that pulmonary and cardiac sources have been excluded. In addition to medication, consider working with a psychologist for training in relaxation techniques. Have you identified a source for your stress? Also, a second opinion is never a bad idea. I wish you the best in your search for a solution.

Check Vocal cords: There is a condition where your vocal cords are tightening up when you breathe in . This can give you shortness of breath made worse by stress and commonly confused with asthma. Vocal cord dysfunction can be made worse by acid reflux and sometimes, post nasal drainage. Get these fixed, then a good speech therapist may help you by teaching you techniques to help you breathe more efficiently.