wasnt quite sure where to put this.. hopefully this is ok :)

For the last few months, when i go to sleep, when im on the brink of sleep.. you know that time where your just about in lala land but not quite.. i all of sudden cant breathe and gasp for breath.. it lasts all of a second or two as i usually jump and then all is well.. im just wondering why? i dont get asthma, but have been a smoker for about 12 years.. i wondered if it has anything to do with that.. has any one else had this happen? it doesnt happen every night just some nights and stared a few months ago..

thanks for any suggestions you might have :)