Breathing problems occur as a result of diseases that affect the lungs. The lungs allow air in and out through a series of airways called bronchial tubes. Diseases that affect the bronchial tubes can cause difficulty breathing. Breathing problems can also occur from diseases that cause inflammation and swelling of the lung tissue.
Asthma
Asthma is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the airways in the lungs and the production of extra mucus, which results in difficulty breathing. The exact cause of asthma is not known, but it is believed to develop as a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Common triggers of asthma include airborne allergens, respiratory infections, exercise, cold air, stress and certain medications, according to MayoClinic.com. In addition to breathing problems, symptoms of asthma include chest tightness, wheezing, coughing and trouble sleeping. Treatment of asthma usually includes a combination of inhaled quick-relief medications and long-term medications that work by reducing inflammation of the airways. Quick-relief medications are taken during an asthma attack and long-term medications are usually taken every day.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the large bronchial tubes in the lungs. Bronchitis can either be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis usually occurs as a result of a viral respiratory infection that affects the nose, sinuses and throat and then eventually travels to the lungs, according to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health. Chronic bronchitis is a long-term condition that most often occurs as a result of smoking. Symptoms of bronchitis include difficulty breathing with shortness of breath, a mucus-filled cough, chest discomfort, fatigue, wheezing and low-fever. Acute bronchitis caused by a virus does not require any treatment and usually goes away on its own after a period of rest and the ingestion of plenty of fluids. Chronic bronchitis usually goes away with the cessation of smoking.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a condition in which there is an infection in the lungs caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses or parasites. Pneumonia is most often a result of a viral infection that occurs following an upper respiratory tract infection of the nose and throat. Symptoms of pneumonia include difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, wheezing, fever, chills, cough, chest pain, abdominal pain and loss of appetite, according to KidsHealth, an information website sponsored by the Nemours Foundation. Pneumonia is contagious and can be spread by coughing, sneezing or sharing utensils. Pneumonia is usually treated with a series of antibiotics. With treatment, pneumonia can usually be cured in one to two weeks.
