Involuntarily, I forcefully exhale after every few breathes. Why?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 31 years old generally healthy man. However, I have been suffering from 16 years of my age (and lately very often) by involuntary interrupted breath. It is like forced exhalation that happens almost like a hiccup every few breaths, but it is not as loud or pronounced. It does not seem to come from the stomach. It sounds like a thoughtful single snorting. It is as if someone said something funny, and you just breathed out “hm,” except it is every few breaths in my case and no funny part. It can last for days. However, when I am sleeping, I breathe normally without interruptions during sleep. So it is when I am awake. I can be free from this interrupted breathing for months. and then without any specific reason, it comes back, and nothing seems to help. Exercises, massages, or food changes also do not help. My X-ray was clear, and the breathing test did not indicate any problems.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

After analysis of the history, It seems like a nasal passage block which could probably be due to:

1) Deviated nasal septum.

2) Due to enlargement of the nasal projections called hypertrophy of turbinates due to infections or allergies.

3) Presence of a foreign body or mechanical blockage along the nasal passage like growths called polyps (easily treatable and nothing to worry about)

However, I would like to know the following:

1) Do you have a runny nose or stuffed nose?

2) Do you have frequent episodes of cold or fever?

3) Do you have any known allergies?

4) Any previous history of trauma or bleeding from the nose?

I suggest you carry out a nasal examination in front of a mirror for any growth, redness, enlargement, or anything unusual. Then, do follow up with details. Stay healthy and positive. There is nothing to worry about at all.