I have had these for many years and 2 nights ago had one caused by the acid reflux suddenly shooting up and out closing my throat and stopping me breathing I was terrified the noise made and the feeling my head was going to explode and being alone was terrifying I really thought this one was going to kill me no-one has ever said they don't ... Once told by paramedics that I wouldn't know not helpful and the only thing to do during one is to not to panic difficult and wait ... What else can I do avoid the things that cause acid but sometimes it's just a cough or something going down the wrong way. Very scary I so wish it would stop....
A lot of people who get reflux can be treated with a medication called a PPI. Lots of them available on prescription from your GP.
I am on reflux medication have been for years but it isnt always the acid that causes the closure it can be just something going down the wrong way drinking from a can is lethal for me as it sets me off
If it happens at night try raising the head of the bed on a couple of bricks. If you smoke stop, if you are overweight you will need to work on that. Do not drink fizzy drinks and stop taking caffeine.
Just a few suggestions to help stop it happening. Hope it helps