My 7 year old son developed a irregular breathing pattern about 3 weeks ago. He gasps for air. No fever, good appetite etc. Two days ago we went to see his doctor. She didnt detect anything alarming and said it is likely anxiety. The only time he gets relief is when he sleeps. His breathing is normal then. Below are the words my son used to describe to his doctor how he felt; My throat feels like New York City. The streets are busy with lots of cars. I am trying hard to get to the other side, but I cant. This is how my crazy breathing makes me feel. -Adrian He also told his doctor that it felt as if one side of his breathing was dead and the other side alive.