Does Prednisone Cause Breathing Issues

Fluid retention is one of prednisone’s most famous side effects. “‘Moon face’ is common, which is swelling in the face that can occur after you’ve been on steroids for a long time,” Dr. Ford notes. “You can also get swelling in the legs and midsection.” Water retention can be a side effect of prednisone. If you have had a major increase in water retention this could cause your breathing symptoms.

It is possible for rheumatoid arthritis to affect the lung and cause breathing symptoms. It is also possible for heart problems like the 3 floppy valves in your heart to cause breathing symptoms. And yes, pred can cause breathing problems - nut pneumonia/bronchitis is even worse.