I appreciate this so much! I have experienced this on and off for several years. It started after having an important relationship turn toxic, so a lot of anxiety was present. My doctor did blood work and since it and my vitals were fine, she determined it was anxiety or allergy induced. My counselor used to be a physical therapist and told me to try breathing from my diaphragm, and that does help a lot. I am not sure anxiety is the initial trigger, but it absolutely does not help! I have not been eating well the last few days, so I am interested in the comments about acid reflux. I tend to burp a lot when this sensation is present, but I never know if it’s the cause or the result of “gulping for air.” But after reading your post, I remembered that I hardly dealt with “air hunger” in the spring/early summer when I was exercising regularly and eating well. As a first-year teacher in grad school studying for state exams, I haven’t had time but it looks like I should make time! I will add that sometimes a little cry helps. I instantly felt some (not complete) relief after just a mini-cry a while ago, which is my main reason for thinking anxiety and stress play a part.

Thank you for what you do and for your transparency and encouragement here! You are strong!