86 Year old father with diabetes under control (addording to doctor). He's been complaining of clogged ears for over a year now. He is miserable when they are clogged, which is most of the time. His doc saw no signs of an infection in ears or sinus and gave him steroidal nasal sprays which he has taken but not helped the clogged ears. He has seen an ear, nose and throat specialist who would not give him any meds since he saw no sign of infection or fluid in the ears and actually told us he did not know why the ears are clogged. I am trying to get him to see another specialist.
Also, he has been having trouble swallowing pills and some foods. His doctor wanted him to have an xray of his throat months ago but he refused to do it. Now doctor wants his thyroid levels checked. He aslo complains of shortness of breath frequently. He won't tell is doctor and has warned me not to inform him either.
Oh, last but not least, he suffers from dementia to a degree. He is so fearful any tests could lead to a hospital stay and then a nursing home.
Could all of these symptoms be tied together?