Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This is a common condition characterized by long-term breathing problems and poor airflow. The symptoms of cough with expectoration and shortness of breath are classic for COPD, especially in smokers or those with a history of smoking.

Asthma: A condition causing spasms and inflammation of the airways, leading to recurring episodes of wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Asthma can present with similar symptoms and is a common cause of respiratory issues.
Pneumonia: An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid. Symptoms include cough with expectoration, fever, chills, and shortness of breath, making it a likely diagnosis for these symptoms.
Bronchitis: Inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. It can cause cough with expectoration and shortness of breath, especially if it becomes chronic.

Pulmonary Embolism: A blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in your lungs. While it typically presents with sudden onset of shortness of breath and chest pain, it can sometimes present more subtly and is critical not to miss due to its high mortality rate.
Lung Cancer: A leading cause of cancer deaths. It can present with cough, expectoration, and shortness of breath, among other symptoms. Early detection is crucial for treatment outcomes.
Tuberculosis (TB): A potentially serious infectious disease that mainly affects your lungs. The symptoms can include cough with expectoration, chest pain, and shortness of breath. TB is important not to miss due to its infectious nature and the need for specific treatment.

Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs, digestive system, and other organs in the body. It leads to the production of thick, sticky mucus that can clog the airways and trap bacteria, resulting in recurrent respiratory infections, lung damage, and eventually, respiratory failure.
Sarcoidosis: A disease characterized by the growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells (granulomas) in any part of your body — most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. It can cause cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): A condition in which the lungs become scarred, leading to breathing difficulties. Symptoms include dry cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. It's a diagnosis of exclusion and requires further testing for confirmation.