Do you get shortness of breath with indigestion?

I have a history of asthma and my main symptom is shortness of breath. But I control it with daily medication and my inhaler if I have to. Right now I have major indigestion/pain under the sternum. And I feel short of breath (esspecially in spikes of pain) and I want to know if that happens to other asthma sufferers. If there are any doctors/knowledgable-people out there: Why does this happen?

You have been diagnosed with asthma and are on medication (inhaler) to control it. You mention you have "major indigestion"; have you been evaluated by your physician for GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)?

GERD occurs when your esophageal sphincter (between your esophagus and stomach) does not close properly and stomach acids are forced into your esophagus, causing damage and inflammation. This damage and inflammation can result in SOB (shortness of breath); however, the fact that you have asthma may be complicating this condition as you cannot tell exactly why you are SOB.

Inflammation and damage to the esophagus can cause erosive esophagitis (the esophagus sheds cells); this may lead to Barrett's Esophagus, a precancerous condition; this may then lead to esophageal cancer. You do not have to have major pain to be experiencing esophageal erosion.

Again, your asthma may be the cause of your SOB. But your calling it "major indigestion" may indicate you need to see a physician to make sure you don't have GERD.

I have before If the indigestion leaves and the short of breath dosn't then I'd keep an eye on it!
Try not to worry!
hockeygirl4ever@yahoo.com

I agree with jt. I only get asthma symptoms when my acid reflux symptoms are severe. I suppose the acid gets into the bronchial tubes and causes inflammation. I always take Prilosec for a few days when this happens and it always helps. Good luck.