You can automate deleting of paragraph breaks or hard enters automatically.
First, backup your document if something happens.
Then:

1. Select the paragraph you want.
2. Press CTRL + H (Find and replace).
3. To "Find what" field enter this ^p That is a sign for hard enter or paragraph mark.
4. In "Replace with" field, hit enter so you have one empty space there.
5. Hit "Replace all" button and it should be done.

Remember to do it paragraph by paragraph or this procedure can put all of your text into one piece.

I hope that I have understood your question right. If not and you need further assistance, just let me know in this thread. Everything is solvable. :-)

mike