Struggling to Breathe: Yawning Difficulties and Solutions - Family Medicine

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It sounds like you have been experiencing significant discomfort and distress related to your breathing difficulties for quite some time. The sensation of not being able to take a deep breath, along with the inability to yawn fully, can be quite concerning and may be indicative of several underlying issues.
From your description, it appears that you have already taken some important steps by consulting with both traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and undergoing various tests, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram, which have ruled out major cardiac issues. Additionally, your previous chemotherapy and lung evaluations have also returned normal results. This is a positive sign, but it does not address the ongoing symptoms you are experiencing.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a pulmonologist, a specialist in lung and respiratory conditions. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including pulmonary function tests, to assess how well your lungs are working and to determine if there are any underlying respiratory issues that may not have been previously identified. Conditions such as asthma, anxiety-related hyperventilation, or even chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) could potentially contribute to the sensations you are experiencing.

In addition to a pulmonologist, it may also be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional. Anxiety and stress can manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as difficulty breathing or feeling like you cannot take a deep breath. If you are experiencing anxiety or panic attacks, this could explain the sensation of needing to yawn but being unable to do so completely. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can be effective in managing anxiety and its physical manifestations.

Moreover, you mentioned experiencing neck pain and tearing during these episodes, which could suggest tension in your neck and shoulder muscles, often associated with stress or anxiety. Physical therapy might also be a helpful avenue to explore, as it can provide exercises and techniques to relieve muscle tension and improve your overall respiratory function.

In the meantime, consider practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or yoga. These practices can help reduce anxiety and improve your ability to control your breathing. When you feel the urge to yawn, try to consciously relax your body and focus on taking slow, deep breaths through your nose, allowing your diaphragm to expand fully.

In summary, I recommend that you see a pulmonologist to evaluate your respiratory symptoms and consider consulting a mental health professional to address any anxiety-related issues. Additionally, exploring physical therapy for muscle tension may also be beneficial. Remember, it’s important to advocate for your health and seek the support you need to find relief from these distressing symptoms.