I was SOB on minimal exertion for 91/2 yrs; finally an X-ray of my spine showed herniated disc pressing on my spine. After ACDF surgery, the SOB finally cleared up and I can do steps again and more. I developed the aforementioned ‘can’t get a good breath’ just about six months before the surgery and hoped it would clear it up as well. It comes and goes and I’m wondering if I don’t have another problem perhaps above the other disc that was replaced. I used to work out at the gym and lift weights but stopped it when became SOB, and won’t do that again. Just throwing this out for an idea for anyone reading this to have an X-ray of their spine. Like you, I was cleared of all other health problems.