Which condition is characterized by difficulty breathing and wheezing?

The condition characterized by difficulty breathing and wheezing is asthma exacerbation. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which can lead to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, particularly during an exacerbation or attack. During an asthma exacerbation, the airways become even more constricted, making it increasingly difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs, resulting in pronounced wheezing—a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs during breathing.

In contrast, while an allergic reaction can cause breathing difficulties and wheezing, it is more commonly associated with additional symptoms like skin reactions (hives) and swelling that may not always be present during an asthma exacerbation. Chronic bronchitis is characterized by a persistent cough and mucus production, and while it can lead to breathing difficulties, wheezing is not as prominent as it is in asthma. Pneumonia, an infection of the lungs, can lead to difficulty breathing but tends to produce a cough with phlegm, fever, and other signs of infection rather than the typical wheezing associated with asthma.