A neurological cause of recurrent choking during sleep

Authors

Kathryn A. Davis, University of Pennsylvania
Charles Cantor, University of Pennsylvania
Douglas Maus, University of Pennsylvania
Susan T. Herman, University of PennsylvaniaFollow

Document Type

Article

Abstract

We describe a case of nocturnal choking episodes caused by insular seizures. Recurrent choking spells from sleep showed no response to treatment for sleep apnea or gastroesophageal reflux. Laryngoscopy revealed no abnormalities. Although continuous EEG monitoring during events was normal, ictal SPECT imaging showed increased radiotracer uptake in the left insular region, an area involved in sensation of the upper gastrointestinal tract. The episodes remitted after initiation of an antiepileptic drug. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common cause for presentation to a sleep center, but seizures should remain in the differential diagnosis of nocturnal choking episodes.

Publication Date

12-15-2008

Publication Title

Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine

ISSN

15509389

E-ISSN

15509397

Volume

4

Issue

6

First Page

586

Last Page

587

PubMed ID

19110889

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.5664/jcsm.27354

Recommended Citation

Davis, Kathryn A.; Cantor, Charles; Maus, Douglas; and Herman, Susan T., "A neurological cause of recurrent choking during sleep" (2008). Neurology. 558.
https://scholar.barrowneuro.org/neurology/558