I'm going to go ahead and declare victory on this one. It has been a gut wrenching couple of months but I'm finally sleeping through the night and have resumed my normal activities. I used a variety of things (see my previous posts). My SOB started after a cold. I did have it during physical activity. And my iron level was slightly low. I also had sinus congestion.

For anyone seeking options, I think my issue was related to electrolytes since the ER stated my potassium was a little low. I incorporated more potassium rich foods, I started taking whole foods vitamin c, exercised and drank plenty of water. I noticed the SOB was worse when I was dehydrated (which throws off your electrolytes), and I think the final thing that made a difference was I started eating more salt. Whenever I felt it acting up I would make sure I added sea salt (Himalayan sea salt) to my meals since it's loaded with minerals and it would stop. Sodium should be balanced with potassium so don't eat too much salt without eating enough potassium rich foods.

Another thing that helped was focusing on alkalinity. If the body becomes too acidic from not eating enough fruits and vegetables, it can throw your body into survival mode (alkalosis) which will cause shortness of breath, weird C02 levels and a whole lot of bad things. If you deal with heartburn this could be your situation. Research the terms alkalosis and acidosis to learn more.

I switched to a whole foods multivitamin since conventional ones can be acidic.

I walk at a gentle pace since I read it can normalize C02 overtime.

I'm not sure what the connection is with those of us with low iron but I did research the work of Morley Robbins who states that there is a complex relationship between iron in the body and low iron tests could mean there's too much iron in the tissues and that creates an acidic body which will also cause SOB. A few of his recommendations resonated with me so I incorporated them and felt better right away ie, whole foods vitamin C.

Everyone's body is different. I decided to follow the route of improving my overall general health and would encourage anyone to try that first. I'd also encourage everyone to do their own research. The human body is very complex and sometimes doctors don't know or don't take the time and are quick to dismiss patient symptoms. SOB is a life altering symptom of a deeper issue. If it's related to anxiety...that can be traced back to diet, exercise, mineral status, stress management etc. If it's relate to GERD or silent reflux, again that's an issue with acidity and that can be balanced by a change in diet to include more alkalizing foods and minerals. Be determined to find a solution and get your life back. Prayers and best wishes to all of you. Thanks to all of you for your contribution to this board. We never know how many people will stumble across this board and find the solution to their problem here.

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