Urgency to take deep breaths?

Question

Lately, I have been experiencing the urgency to always take a deep breath, and am unable to (most of the time). When I try to, its as if my lungs don't expand as much as they should.

I also have a tendency to yawn frequently, which results in the same thing (not able to fully yawn).

I just feel like I can't get the air I need and always want to take a deep breath or yawn.

I don't smoke/drink/or take any kind of pills or medication either. And nobody in my family experiences anything like this.

Does anybody know if this is a known condition, and if there is a name for it? If not, what should I do about it? I am already planning to see a doctor.

Forgot to add that I just started going to the gym recently, and do lots of cardio(treadmill, stairmaster) and work on my arms and abs.

Could I possibly be overworking myself?

Answer 1

It is called air hunger or dyspnea. Air hunger can be the symptom of many conditions. Dyspnea can often be a symptom associated with severe anxiety and panic attacks. If you are not aware of any anxiety happening at the same time as your air hunger, then I would definitely get checked out by a doctor soon. Dyspnea is a very common symptom associated with congestive heart failure and other serious conditions.

Answer 2

Only a doctor can truly tell you what the problem may be however... you may very well be suffering from panic attacks. Over 25 million Americans suffer the same symptoms every single day. Tightness in your chest, unable to take a deep breath... those could be serious signs of stress. You said "When I try to, its as if my lungs don't expand as much as they should." This could be fear based that might turn into a phobia if you don't learn the skills to relieve yourself of the stress and anxiety you suffer. I assure you that you have nothing to fear. You can stop your panic attacks from ever happening by learning some serious skills that can change your life forever. You might check out this website for more information. http://www.attackanxiety.com

Answer 3

If your doctor is not able to identify anything physically wrong with your lungs, diaphragm or chest, then it's likely benign. From time to time, for whatever reason, people will suddenly become hyper-aware of their own breathing, which is usually subconscious. Normal people will, without conscious awareness, take 1 or 2 deep inspirations per minute. When we become acutely aware of our own breathing and feel like we are unable to get adequate air, this is known as dyspnea. Hopefully you'll be fine, but see what your physician says.

Answer 4

I really don't see that it would be from the work out. To me it sounds alot like copd, which usually comes from smoking or second hand smoke,but it can also come from chemicals that you work around or in. Can come from household chemicals also or you could have bronchitis or asthma. It can be a number of things, but none of which should go unseen.You are doing the right thing about going to the doctor. Wish you well!!!!!!!!! Sissy

Answer 5

could be anxiety, or stress. i went to the doctor a couple months ago with the same problem, i was also having chest pains, he told me that when i inhaled my mucles closed instead of opened so i dont get enough air. he told me to do a bunch of breathing exercises to help my muscles remember to open. so that might help. just see what the doctor says, theres many possibilities as to what could be wrong.
i hope all go well!

Answer 6

Do cardiovascular exercise regularly, but also particular muscle excercises. Such as Barbell Pull overs, as they increase the size of your chest cavity. Plus all the other things mentioned already, Hyperventilating and good old fashioned practice! Good luck.

Answer 7

this happens to me when i have an upper respiratory infection. i have asthma and it happens about twice a year. you should go to a doctor hes probably gona end up prescribing you with an inhaler and some form of antibiotics

Answer 8

Stress related?

Answer 9

the doctor is the best idea