Hi @robonobo
I hear you-- your experience sounds incredibly familiar, and I completely understand the frustration of searching for answers while everything on paper looks “normal.” It’s exhausting to go through so many tests, make lifestyle changes, and do all the right things, only to still be left with this constant air hunger.

It sounds like you’ve tackled this from every possible angle; thyroid, heart, lungs, diet, anxiety, gut health-- honestly, I’m impressed with how thorough you’ve been. The fact that you’ve ruled out so many things and still feel great overall makes this all the more baffling.

That discomfort in your chest and diaphragm area caught my attention. I’ve heard others describe something similar, especially when there’s a connection to digestion or diaphragm tension. Have you noticed if eating smaller, more frequent meals helps? I also wonder if something like gentle abdominal massage or diaphragm-focused breathing (like from the Buteyko method) could make a difference for you.

I totally get how the constant need to "try" for that deep breath can be the most frustrating part. Some days, it’s just mentally exhausting. Have you found anything, whether distraction, posture changes, or even certain types of movement-- that helps make those moments more manageable?

You’re not alone in this, and I really appreciate you sharing your story.