[Nocturnal choking sensation]

Abstract

There are many different types of sleep disorders. The majority of sleep-related breathing disorders can be attributed to sleep apnoea syndrome. Nocturnal choking sensation is a different symptom, for which we present two cases. Nocturnal choking sensation is a terrifying symptom for the patient and the diagnostic approach can be challenging. Aside from sleep choking syndrome, this symptom may appear with nocturnal laryngospasm, insular epilepsy and nocturnal gastro-oesophageal reflux. A thorough patient history and observation of the nocturnal event, sometimes supported by EEG findings, may provide the clue to the diagnosis. These kinds of nocturnal symptoms are best analyzed in a clinic specialized in both epilepsy and sleep disorders.