Bronchitis: Symptoms and Treatments

8. Difficulty breathing

Bronchitis can cause shortness of breath but does not usually cause difficulty breathing. Pneumonia is a complication of bronchitis and difficulty breathing can be a symptom.

Someone with pneumonia may also have a high fever of up to 105°F, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, chills, sweating, loss of appetite, fatigue, and confusion. See a medical professional if you cannot completely exhale or inhale or if you feel like something is physically keeping you from breathing.