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How can I get rid of this? Should I go to the doctor?
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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #20678
186 days ago
354

How can I get rid of this? Should I go to the doctor?

PaulCosmin

Hello, I'm a teenager, I'm 17 years old, almost 18, and this isn't the first time I've had this problem. More precisely, I feel the sensation of suffocation, and I have to yawn to regulate my breathing. I played football for 12 years, from 5 to 17 years old, and I didn't have any problems, but sometimes I just get this period, generally when I consume cola, pepsi, or coffee. What could it be?

Age: 17
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Doctors' responses

Based on your age, medical background, and the pattern you describe, your symptoms are most consistent with anxiety-related breathing dysregulation triggered by caffeine, rather than a heart or lung disease.

Cola, Pepsi, and coffee all contain caffeine, which stimulates the nervous system and can:

Increase breathing awareness

Cause a sensation of air hunger or “not getting a full breath”

Trigger frequent yawning as the body tries to regulate breathing

The fact that you:

Played football for many years without breathing problems

Do not experience symptoms during physical exertion

Notice symptoms mainly after caffeine intake

strongly argues against a structural lung or heart problem.

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Hello,

This can be Stimulant-induced hyperventilation (caffeine can make you feel short of breath or anxious)

Acid reflux or gastric bloating (carbonated drinks can trigger a sensation of fullness/suffocation)

Anxiety or panic response (even mild)

Red flags: Persistent shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or wheezing

Management: Avoid caffeine and carbonated drinks, stay hydrated, practice slow breathing. Stick to water/ non carbonated drinks

This simple change often reduces or stops the episodes.

Usually benign, but if any red flags please go to ER immediately

I trust this helps Thank you

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Given your symptoms, it’s possible what you’re experiencing might be related to anxiety or caffeine sensitivity. Both are known to cause a sensation of suffocation or trouble with breathing. Caffeine, found in drinks like cola, Pepsi, and coffee, is a stimulant that can increase heart rate, cause jitteriness, and sometimes lead to a feeling of anxiety or shortness of breath, particularly if consumed in high amounts or if you’re sensitive to it. I’d first recommend observing if avoiding these beverages alleviates the symptoms. Keep a diary of what you consume and note when these sensations occur. This can help identify if there’s indeed a connection between your diet and your symptoms. However, if these feelings of suffocation occur without any obvious trigger or become more frequent or severe, it’d be wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical issues such as asthma or other respiratory conditions. It’s particularly important to see a doctor if you notice symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or fainting, as these could be signs of a more serious condition. Your history of playing football suggests that your cardiovascular fitness should be good, but it’s still worth checking these things out for peace of mind. Anxiety management techniques such as deep-breathing exercises, mindfulness, or even speaking to a counselor could be beneficial as well. In all cases, if at any time you experience intense difficulty in breathing or new, sudden symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention to ensure your symptoms aren’t part of a more serious issue.

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Hello dear See there can be chances of caffeine allergy which is the basic constituent of these drinks. I suggest you to please get following tests done for confirmation of exact diagnosis Intradermal test Patch test Blood allergy test Please share the result with general physician medicine for better clarity Regards

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