Chroic sinus discharge with breathing difficulty

[grannygrover]

My husband has several medical problems including diabetes and has recently has two stents placed.

In Feb 2010 he had a heart attack and was recovering fairly well from that, but over the summer his health started to deteriorate and he ended up in hospital and eventually had 2 stents placed.

Over the past 6-8 months he has had increasing problems with his nose constantly running (clear discharge), frequent throat clearing, has what he calls a "furball" in his throat that he can't get rid of, and has difficulty breathing. When you watch him breathe his entire abdomen heaves with each breath he takes. His nasal discharge increases drastically every time he eats, especially when eating soup.

He has been on Pantaloc for about 4 years as he suffers from chronic heartburn, as well as several other medications to control cholesterol and diabetes.

Since he has had his stent placement he does not have hear-associated shortness of breath, but feels like he is not getting enough air when he breathes.

Would appreciate any suggestions, thoughts or experiences from others.

Thanks,

Grannygrover

[bsmsl]

He can add an anti-acid of calcium and magnesium (Tums Rolaids...) when he has break through symptoms.  What H2 blocker is he on?

Been there and done the depression thing.  It is very common for people dealing with chronic health issues.  Sometimes it really feels like they are controlling you.  For me it was that I was losing my ability to go anywhere or care for my family without having asthma attacks.  Simple things like cooking a meal would trigger attacks.  It is very hard and frustrating.

Praying that you find some answers soon.

[grannygrover]

Thanks for your reply.

Pantoloc is a PPI and he is on H2 blockers as well. He will have a followup appointment with his cardiologist in 4-6 weeks.

He does not have asthma according to his GP, although I personally think he  has an allergy to milk.

He is just frustrated at his seemingly neverending health issues and inability to sleep in his own bed at night and chronic fatigue and lack of enthusiasm for life and so am I. He is not the life-loving man he was even 4 months ago.

I am starting to wonder if he is suffering from depression brought on by his ongoing health issues.

[bsmsl]

Several things:

Acid reflux could be causing his breathing issues.  I am not familiar with Pantaloc.  I would suggest he talk with his doctor about taking a proton pump inhibitor and an H2 blocker as well as life style changes to better control his reflux.  Silent reflux can cause sinus drainage and the 'fur ball' feeling.

Heart issues could still be at play.  He should have a good talk with his cardiologist.

Lastly allergies and asthma could be the cause.  An exam by his primary care physician can rule those out or confirm them.

Praying you find answers.