My son is 40 and when he goes to sleep sometimes he wakes choking like something went down the wrong pipe. It gets so bad I believe he is going to pass out trying to catch his breathe. It usually takes 2 to 3 minutes before he can take a normal breathe. I'm afraid he is going to pass out and not be able to catch his breathe again. Do you have any ideas as what we should do to help him, or does he need to go see someone?

Yes he needs to see a doctor. It might be a number of things... from acid reflux to sleep apnea. Neither of which you really want to leave untreated for long periods. It also can't be diagnosed online... he needs to be tested for both, and possible any others that I'm not personally aware of.

Yes, there are doctors who specialize in sleep problems, but this also could be a breathing issue. Or even an allergy to something in, on or around the bed.