Wednesday, June 30, 2010
11 lbs
I had to take James to the doctor yesterday (he probably has some reflux). He weighed 11 lbs. The doctor said his growth was outstanding. I guess he won't let the fact that he was born 5 weeks early slow him down. Good job James!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Galactosemia and Surgery Update
Yesterday was eventful. I got a call from UAB's newborn testing coordinator for genetic testing. Jame's new born screening for galactosemia had been off (we knew this), and the results from Dr. Simpson's double check and the genetic testing that was sent off to Emory had returned. James has a low level of the enzyme needed to digest galactose (the hospital and Dr. Simpson's test) confirmed the low level; the testing sent to Emory revealed he is Duarte Galactosemic. This means he has one gene for galactosemia and one gene for duarte galactosemia.
The coordinator said that means he needs to be on no dairy for 1 year. After that, dairy will be slowly reintroduced (my understanding is that it will be reintroduced under the guidance of a pediatrician - I am not sure if it will be Dr. Simpson or the UAB genetic peds). The coordinator said that they have never had a duarte patient have trouble after the first year, and the first year no dairy is most precautionary (but considering the complications if too much galactose is in his system, it is necessary).
I checked out the galactosemia website. I am so thrilled that it is not classic galactosemia which has a number of complications even when treated. Praise the Lord!!!!
Also, my follow up appointment with the surgeon was yesterday. I am very tender in my upper abdomen and lower right side of my abdomen. He thinks it is part of the healing processes (I also think the extreme diarrhea I have had since the surgery had contributed to this). He gave me instructions that if I get more tender in the upper abdomen (where the abscess was), I am to call him. If I get more tender in the side, call the gastro.
He also said I am supposed to come back at the first of September so he can check to make sure the place where the abscess was hasn't become herniated.
Other than that, he said I will continue to be in pain off and on for a while. When they removed the abscess, a big space was left. In addition to all the organs returning to their normal place after pregnancy, my organs also have to fill the space of the abscess and heal.
So, I am to continue to take it easy and continue on the healing process. I am betting that since he won't know until September if I have developed a hernia, it will be longer than I hoped before my stomach feels somewhat normal.
The surgeon also put me on the yucky tasting medicine to try to stop my diarrhea (which he had hoped would stop on its own). When he removed 1 foot of my small intestine, it was the part of the small intestine responsible for absorbing vitamin B12 (I will have to be on shots for the rest of my life) and reabsorbing body salts (think the electrolytes like in gatorade). The multivitamin I am on should help prevent any imbalances, but the unabsorbed salts act as a laxative when they hit my large intestine. He said to stay on this until the gastro changes it (if he chooses to).
The funny thing is that the medicine is actually a cholesterol lowering medicine. The diarrhea usage is off label, but the pharmacist said it is common and safe for a problem like mine. So while my cholesterol was previously healthy, I guess in addition to not being trapped to places with restrooms close by, my cholesterol will also be extra healthy.
I am having trouble adjusting to the fact that this is a life-long change for me. I have had what we believed to be IBS for as long as I can remember; however I never thought of it as life-long because most of IBS treatment is eating high fiber foods. The idea of being on medicines for the rest of my life seems weird to me. It is also a little scary to think I will have to be so diligent. I can have trouble remembering to take medicines. I am trusting God to give me a habit of taking care of myself so it doesn't become a problem.
The coordinator said that means he needs to be on no dairy for 1 year. After that, dairy will be slowly reintroduced (my understanding is that it will be reintroduced under the guidance of a pediatrician - I am not sure if it will be Dr. Simpson or the UAB genetic peds). The coordinator said that they have never had a duarte patient have trouble after the first year, and the first year no dairy is most precautionary (but considering the complications if too much galactose is in his system, it is necessary).
I checked out the galactosemia website. I am so thrilled that it is not classic galactosemia which has a number of complications even when treated. Praise the Lord!!!!
Also, my follow up appointment with the surgeon was yesterday. I am very tender in my upper abdomen and lower right side of my abdomen. He thinks it is part of the healing processes (I also think the extreme diarrhea I have had since the surgery had contributed to this). He gave me instructions that if I get more tender in the upper abdomen (where the abscess was), I am to call him. If I get more tender in the side, call the gastro.
He also said I am supposed to come back at the first of September so he can check to make sure the place where the abscess was hasn't become herniated.
Other than that, he said I will continue to be in pain off and on for a while. When they removed the abscess, a big space was left. In addition to all the organs returning to their normal place after pregnancy, my organs also have to fill the space of the abscess and heal.
So, I am to continue to take it easy and continue on the healing process. I am betting that since he won't know until September if I have developed a hernia, it will be longer than I hoped before my stomach feels somewhat normal.
The surgeon also put me on the yucky tasting medicine to try to stop my diarrhea (which he had hoped would stop on its own). When he removed 1 foot of my small intestine, it was the part of the small intestine responsible for absorbing vitamin B12 (I will have to be on shots for the rest of my life) and reabsorbing body salts (think the electrolytes like in gatorade). The multivitamin I am on should help prevent any imbalances, but the unabsorbed salts act as a laxative when they hit my large intestine. He said to stay on this until the gastro changes it (if he chooses to).
The funny thing is that the medicine is actually a cholesterol lowering medicine. The diarrhea usage is off label, but the pharmacist said it is common and safe for a problem like mine. So while my cholesterol was previously healthy, I guess in addition to not being trapped to places with restrooms close by, my cholesterol will also be extra healthy.
I am having trouble adjusting to the fact that this is a life-long change for me. I have had what we believed to be IBS for as long as I can remember; however I never thought of it as life-long because most of IBS treatment is eating high fiber foods. The idea of being on medicines for the rest of my life seems weird to me. It is also a little scary to think I will have to be so diligent. I can have trouble remembering to take medicines. I am trusting God to give me a habit of taking care of myself so it doesn't become a problem.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Quick Update
James was born on May 4th (at 34 weeks 6 days). He is healthy but little. 5 lbs 7 oz. He had a check up today. He is now 6 lbs 5 oz. Dr. said he is growing faster than the rate they hope for.
I had a CT scan the on May 5 to see what the lump in my stomach was (and the source of all my pain). Turns out that I had a perforation in my small bowel (due to undiagnosed Crohn's Disease). The perforation caused an abscess that was growing through my abdomen wall.
May 6th was surgery prep day. Basically it was a colonosocpy type prep (with a lot of crying on my part). James is discharged from hospital with Todd.
May 7th was my surgery. They removed the abscess and a foot of my small intestine (called bowel resection).
May 8th -17th - surgery recovery in the hospital. The surgeon says I have no idea how sick I was. I am sure he is right; however, I am sure I did not enjoy the recovery. I was so sick my colon would not "wake up." They had hoped it would happen right away; mine took 7 days. I ended up spending most of the time not allowed anything by mouth. Finally I had an NG tube and pit lines (for IV feeding) and a blood transfusion. This time period also included mountains of vomiting, diarrhea, blood work, cultures, samples, and other gross stuff.
May 18th - I go home after a half day of solid food.
Since May 18th I have been trying to recover. I am eating better. I am gaining some strength, although stairs are still beyond my ability. It is amazing how much energy putting clothes on takes. I cry easily (or more easily than usual). My colon that wouldn't wake up now won't slow down. The surgeon said 6 to 8 weeks recovery. Today is week 3. The gastro doctor told me to expect all the recovery to take on the longer side because I was so sick for so long, had the baby, and then had the surgery (and I went into the surgery almost needing a blood transfusion due to low iron).
Hopefully I will feel well enough to post pictures of James soon.
Erik has been such a good boy and big brother through all of this. God sent Todd's mom to stay with us just days before James was born. She has been so wonderful. My mom was so wonderful staying with me almost round the clock the entire time I was at the hospital. Todd has been amazing taking care of Erik and James. The man is a super dad!
I had a CT scan the on May 5 to see what the lump in my stomach was (and the source of all my pain). Turns out that I had a perforation in my small bowel (due to undiagnosed Crohn's Disease). The perforation caused an abscess that was growing through my abdomen wall.
May 6th was surgery prep day. Basically it was a colonosocpy type prep (with a lot of crying on my part). James is discharged from hospital with Todd.
May 7th was my surgery. They removed the abscess and a foot of my small intestine (called bowel resection).
May 8th -17th - surgery recovery in the hospital. The surgeon says I have no idea how sick I was. I am sure he is right; however, I am sure I did not enjoy the recovery. I was so sick my colon would not "wake up." They had hoped it would happen right away; mine took 7 days. I ended up spending most of the time not allowed anything by mouth. Finally I had an NG tube and pit lines (for IV feeding) and a blood transfusion. This time period also included mountains of vomiting, diarrhea, blood work, cultures, samples, and other gross stuff.
May 18th - I go home after a half day of solid food.
Since May 18th I have been trying to recover. I am eating better. I am gaining some strength, although stairs are still beyond my ability. It is amazing how much energy putting clothes on takes. I cry easily (or more easily than usual). My colon that wouldn't wake up now won't slow down. The surgeon said 6 to 8 weeks recovery. Today is week 3. The gastro doctor told me to expect all the recovery to take on the longer side because I was so sick for so long, had the baby, and then had the surgery (and I went into the surgery almost needing a blood transfusion due to low iron).
Hopefully I will feel well enough to post pictures of James soon.
Erik has been such a good boy and big brother through all of this. God sent Todd's mom to stay with us just days before James was born. She has been so wonderful. My mom was so wonderful staying with me almost round the clock the entire time I was at the hospital. Todd has been amazing taking care of Erik and James. The man is a super dad!
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Update
Well most of last week has been pretty good. I think my strength was coming back. I actually straighted up the house some on Tuesday. On Wednesday, I worked in the office, and I have a good working day from home on Thursday.
Then I hit the wall yesterday. I am still having some trouble getting myself back to normal after taking antibiotics, and as Todd says, I probably did too much. Poor Todd came back in the bedroom last night to find me in tears. I am just tired of being in pain. I think things are getting worse, but not because my condition is getting worse (I think that is about the same), but because the end of pregnancy aches and pains are being added to it.
So, today, I am feeling a little better than yesterday. I am in less pain, but I have a lot less energy. I am a bit sad because I am missing out on a cookout at Oak Mountain. But, I am so glad that Todd and Erik are able to go. I am glad they are enjoying a spring activity, and I am hopefully going to do some online shopping tonight.
I remember enjoying the last of Erik's pregnancy (even with the end of pregnancy aches and pains) because there were showers, a nursery to decorate, baby clothes to wash and put away, trips to Target and BabiesRUs to buy supplies and just look in wonder at all the baby stuff. I spent time talking to Erik in the womb, and I felt like we bonded even before he was born.
However, with this pregnancy, I feel like I have just spent since Christmas trying to survive. I am really praying for just a couple pain free weeks to enjoy the last little bit of pregnancy.
I have also been worried for the baby because I have not really taken prenatal vitamins because I have been so sick (now at 33 weeks I weigh a couple pounds less than when I got pregnant). However, this kid kicks just as hard as Erik did, and the second sonogram I had he looked healthy and measured a week ahead. So I am not so worried. I am thankful for that piece of mind.
On other notes, my tulips are blossomed. They are red with yellow throats. Very pretty.
Erik has not had an accident since the end of March (the Monday I was in the hospital), and he is now wearing big boy underwear all the time. We are so proud of him. He is pretty proud too. We got him Thomas underwear, and as soon as there is an opening in Ms. Carole's class at school he gets to move up because he is 3 and potty trained. He is so excited about that. They have been letting him go to Ms. Carole's class whenever one of her students don't show up.
At school yesterday, Erik drew a picture of Baby James. It is basically a big smiley face. He was pretty proud of himself. Todd, I, Nana, and Erik's teacher think it is pretty sweet. I think he is getting excited to have a little brother.
Nana did our laundry last week. I am so thankful for that. And, Pawpaw came and cut our grass today. That was great too. Erik especially liked it because he got to ride in Pawpaws lap on the lawnmower for a couple passes around the yard. Erik actually had to go down for nap when Pawpaw was still cutting the grass. He cried and cried when he woke up and realized that Pawpaw had gone home.
We have had a couple people bring us dinners (the Bakers, my mom, the Pardues, Vicki). They have been so appreciated.
Well, that is all for now. I hope to post some pictures, soon.
Then I hit the wall yesterday. I am still having some trouble getting myself back to normal after taking antibiotics, and as Todd says, I probably did too much. Poor Todd came back in the bedroom last night to find me in tears. I am just tired of being in pain. I think things are getting worse, but not because my condition is getting worse (I think that is about the same), but because the end of pregnancy aches and pains are being added to it.
So, today, I am feeling a little better than yesterday. I am in less pain, but I have a lot less energy. I am a bit sad because I am missing out on a cookout at Oak Mountain. But, I am so glad that Todd and Erik are able to go. I am glad they are enjoying a spring activity, and I am hopefully going to do some online shopping tonight.
I remember enjoying the last of Erik's pregnancy (even with the end of pregnancy aches and pains) because there were showers, a nursery to decorate, baby clothes to wash and put away, trips to Target and BabiesRUs to buy supplies and just look in wonder at all the baby stuff. I spent time talking to Erik in the womb, and I felt like we bonded even before he was born.
However, with this pregnancy, I feel like I have just spent since Christmas trying to survive. I am really praying for just a couple pain free weeks to enjoy the last little bit of pregnancy.
I have also been worried for the baby because I have not really taken prenatal vitamins because I have been so sick (now at 33 weeks I weigh a couple pounds less than when I got pregnant). However, this kid kicks just as hard as Erik did, and the second sonogram I had he looked healthy and measured a week ahead. So I am not so worried. I am thankful for that piece of mind.
On other notes, my tulips are blossomed. They are red with yellow throats. Very pretty.
Erik has not had an accident since the end of March (the Monday I was in the hospital), and he is now wearing big boy underwear all the time. We are so proud of him. He is pretty proud too. We got him Thomas underwear, and as soon as there is an opening in Ms. Carole's class at school he gets to move up because he is 3 and potty trained. He is so excited about that. They have been letting him go to Ms. Carole's class whenever one of her students don't show up.
At school yesterday, Erik drew a picture of Baby James. It is basically a big smiley face. He was pretty proud of himself. Todd, I, Nana, and Erik's teacher think it is pretty sweet. I think he is getting excited to have a little brother.
Nana did our laundry last week. I am so thankful for that. And, Pawpaw came and cut our grass today. That was great too. Erik especially liked it because he got to ride in Pawpaws lap on the lawnmower for a couple passes around the yard. Erik actually had to go down for nap when Pawpaw was still cutting the grass. He cried and cried when he woke up and realized that Pawpaw had gone home.
We have had a couple people bring us dinners (the Bakers, my mom, the Pardues, Vicki). They have been so appreciated.
Well, that is all for now. I hope to post some pictures, soon.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Quick Item Of Praise
One challenge in now complete. I got the taxes filed. Unfortunately we owed about $600 due to the Obama administration changing the withholding tables but not the tax liability tables; but they are complete no the less. I will take it.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
What a Week
For those of you who don't know, I spent most of the last week in the hospital. Here is the basics of the entire thing.
Since Decemeber, I have been in pain in my upper abdomen and left side and left side of my back. It continues to get worse as my pregnancy progresses (baby gets bigger pain gets worse, I guess). My OBs all say the baby is fine; which is great because I don't have to that worry on top of my pain. However, I am not OK. So, the OBs turned me over to a Gastro (I have a history of IBS-C which everyone thought was out of control with pregnancy hormones).
In January, I was hospitalized with pain and a fever. The Gastro did a colonoscopy. They ran all the tests you can run with a colonoscopy, and they all came back clear. My colon spasmed through the entire test, so Dr. N (the gastro) put me on anti-spasm medicine. With that medicine, some Miralax and fiber, we have been limping along. BUT, things kept getting worse. So, at the beginning of March, Dr. N. did an endoscopy. This came back clear except for a medium sized hiatal hernia, which Dr. N. said was small enough that most people wouldn't even know they had it. So we added some daily heartburn medicine and tried to limp on (which didn't really do anything other than prevent the occassional heartburn that I was having).
As a side note, my condition seems to be better in the morning and get progressively worse throughout the day. I manage to take care of myself and work, but by about 2:30 or 3:00, I find myself counting down every minute to quiting time (which isn't usually the case because at my office the floor is quietest at this time and I used to get a bunch of work done then). By 4:30, I drag myself to the car. When I get to Erik's school, I can barely get out of the car. When I get him home, I colapse on the bed or couch and Erik plays until Todd gets home. I hurt all night long, but the morning shower seems to loosen things up and I am usually feeling a little better by the time I arrive at work.
After the endoscopy, my condition got worse faster. Last Friday was worse than normal. I found myself watching the clock at 1:30 instead of 2:30, and when I made it to Erik's school I seriously thought of asking the director to go get him for me (I would have but she wasn't in her office). I ended up in tears trying to get Erik in the car. We got home, and I crawled in bed. We ended up going to Arby's for dinner, and I ate a plain jr. roast beef sandwich and couldn't even drink my sweet tea. I went to bed immediately after we got home, and by the time 10:00 came I was in so much pain that I was panicking (crying and panic make stomach pain worse). So, I called the dr. in the morning fearing that I had an intestinal blockage or something.
Saturday morning we went to the doctor. Dr. H (the on call OB) decided to admit me to the hospital for IV fluids and a gastro consult because I had lost so much weight over the last month and a half. (Funny little side note - Dr. H and Dr. N both go to church with some of my coworkers)
Saturday's gastro consult didn't go well because Dr. N's on-call person (Dr. M) probably hadn't seen a pregnant person in years. So his initial decision was to continue my regular medicines for 48 hours. He did order a stool sample to check for bacteria.
Needless to say we were not pleased, and neither was Dr. H (the OB). So, Sunday morning, Dr. H came in the room with me when Dr. M came in. Dr. M was much more thorough. He really felt like my condition was not digestive but muscular or skeletal, but wanted to wait 24 hrs to have Dr. N see me (and the stool sample labs were not back yet). He added another medicine to try to see if coating my stomach with a soothing medicine would help (it didn't).
Dr. N. saw me on Monday and ordered some blood work and consulted more with the OB's. We spent the day trying to stay hydrated and waiting on all the lab results. By Tuesday all the tests came back clear. So, Dr. N ordered a CT scan (which requires drinking a bunch of banana flavored smoothy stuff laced with barium - not the most fun for a nauseated person but comparatively not too bad - I am still thankful for that). The CT scan showed nothing unusual, so we were back to square one. So one Wednesday they gave me an enema to make sure that everything was cleared out (which my colon was already empty, I would have been mad, but I felt like it helped flush out any barium that might have been in my system).
So on Thursday, Dr. N decided to start testing for some more rare conditions. I would tell you what they are, but I don't remember. I do know one was vasculitis and another is a metabolic disorder. So Thursday was spent with blood work, a 24 hour test, and trying to keep my fever gone, and trying to figure a way to get me comfortable enough to go home for the Easter weekend.
I was discharched on Good Friday with a bunch of prescriptions, a follow up appointment for Dr. N., instructions to make a follow up appointment with my OB, a present from some ladies who make encouragement presents for mom's on bed rest, and a misdelivered pink balloon which Erik happily adopted. I was also given words from Dr. N. that he thinks my condition is not digestive as they have seen pretty much all of my digestive system (I don't think they have seen my small intestine due to the baby). I am not out of the woods yet. And, he hopes to know more by my follow up appointment. He does already know that one of the rarer blood tests for inflamation is off the charts.
I had a good day Friday and ate well. However, around 10:00 Friday night the pain started again, and I got a horrible case of the chills. Todd had to hold me still I was shaking so much. The chills and pain continued most of the night and I ended up with a fever. I fought the fever all day yesterday (Saturday) so I didn't eat well at all.
Today I am feeling a little better. I don't think I have had a fever and I have already eated better (I ate breakfast!). Todd and Erik are gone to church. I am starting to feel tired again, but I guess that is to be expected.
So, here is a run down of the tests I have had:
A colonoscopy
An endoscopy
A gallbladder sononogram
A CT scan
A host of blood work
A 24 hour urine test
A stool sample for C-Diff
A sonogram of the baby and my ovaries (the baby looks great and is measuring a week bigger than his due date, and we are quite sure he is boy)
An enema (half treatment - half test)
A run down of results:
The baby looks great and kicks nurses and is head down
My digestive system is fairly normal except for what appears to be run of the mill IBS (I got to keep the protonix for heartburn so I can eat salsa again)
I don't appear to have gallstones or pancreatis or liver function problems
All my regular blood tests, stool sample, and other normal tests have been normal.
The 2 blood tests that might indiciate a more rare disorder: 1 came back slightly elevated but in the normal range for a pregnant woman, and 1 came back so high it is off the charts
A List of Challenges
Dealing with pain
Dealing with guilt for not being able to take better care of my family - Todd is doing a great job and Erik has been well behaved - I just long to have a more active mom role including doing some fun activities
Desiring to get back to work some - there are several things I need to do before my maternity leave - I know I can't do these things without help
Rebuilding strength - spending the week in the hospital and taking pain meds at night drops your blood pressure and zaps your energy - I currently don't feel able to drive, stand for about more time than it takes to have a shower, or to be left alone with Erik
Anemia
Eating - I am so nauseated and in pain that I don't really want to eat. It is a real struggle and it leads to dehydration. I also need to gain weight for the baby. I need to be able to eat well for the health of the baby and for my anemia. Additionally, eating often causes stomach spasms during a meal.
Getting ready for baby and packing a hospital bag
I need summer/spring maternity clothes
Figuring out a plan of what drugs will not upset my IBS when I deliver and having that plan in hand before delivery
Knowing what to do or who to call if my follow up with Dr. N leaves no plan of action (he has already said he doesn't know what to do since this does not appear digestive)
Pain from being in bed too long
Controling fever and dealing with the discomfort of having a fever (I get really nauseated and iritable)
Chills (due to both pain and fever)
Hoping my body progresses to labor very quickly and that the baby would be ready. Todd and I are going to talk to the OBs about inducing as soon as it seems things are ready (as close to 37 weeks as possible). However, we will have to know that the baby is physically ready and that my cervix is thinned. I have high hopes for this since I dialeted early with Erik.
I need to get my energy back enough to pay the bills and do our takes. This is an ASAP item.
I know there are more but my foggy mind can't recall them.
I will spend more time telling about the special things that happened at the hospital (visitors, the photo baby lady, Nurse Sharon, being able to see Todd again after not being able to for a couple of days) later.
In the mean time, Todd is a great Easter Bunny. Last night he brought me beautiful yellow roses which make me smile every time I see them. He put 11 of them in a vase on my vanity so I can see them in bed, and one in a bud vase so I can have it close to me on my bedside table. And he fixed Easter baskets for each of us. We all got candy and a snack size bag of chips. Erik also got Easter shaped sidewalk chalk. My Easter basket had extra bags of chips (Lays Original) because the salty light flavor tastes really good to me even when nothing else does. And, he bought ginger
ale (which tastes really good to me- but I have to be careful with I don't need to introduce too much gas into my already sensitive system).
Todd is great!!!!!!
I think I need a nap.
Since Decemeber, I have been in pain in my upper abdomen and left side and left side of my back. It continues to get worse as my pregnancy progresses (baby gets bigger pain gets worse, I guess). My OBs all say the baby is fine; which is great because I don't have to that worry on top of my pain. However, I am not OK. So, the OBs turned me over to a Gastro (I have a history of IBS-C which everyone thought was out of control with pregnancy hormones).
In January, I was hospitalized with pain and a fever. The Gastro did a colonoscopy. They ran all the tests you can run with a colonoscopy, and they all came back clear. My colon spasmed through the entire test, so Dr. N (the gastro) put me on anti-spasm medicine. With that medicine, some Miralax and fiber, we have been limping along. BUT, things kept getting worse. So, at the beginning of March, Dr. N. did an endoscopy. This came back clear except for a medium sized hiatal hernia, which Dr. N. said was small enough that most people wouldn't even know they had it. So we added some daily heartburn medicine and tried to limp on (which didn't really do anything other than prevent the occassional heartburn that I was having).
As a side note, my condition seems to be better in the morning and get progressively worse throughout the day. I manage to take care of myself and work, but by about 2:30 or 3:00, I find myself counting down every minute to quiting time (which isn't usually the case because at my office the floor is quietest at this time and I used to get a bunch of work done then). By 4:30, I drag myself to the car. When I get to Erik's school, I can barely get out of the car. When I get him home, I colapse on the bed or couch and Erik plays until Todd gets home. I hurt all night long, but the morning shower seems to loosen things up and I am usually feeling a little better by the time I arrive at work.
After the endoscopy, my condition got worse faster. Last Friday was worse than normal. I found myself watching the clock at 1:30 instead of 2:30, and when I made it to Erik's school I seriously thought of asking the director to go get him for me (I would have but she wasn't in her office). I ended up in tears trying to get Erik in the car. We got home, and I crawled in bed. We ended up going to Arby's for dinner, and I ate a plain jr. roast beef sandwich and couldn't even drink my sweet tea. I went to bed immediately after we got home, and by the time 10:00 came I was in so much pain that I was panicking (crying and panic make stomach pain worse). So, I called the dr. in the morning fearing that I had an intestinal blockage or something.
Saturday morning we went to the doctor. Dr. H (the on call OB) decided to admit me to the hospital for IV fluids and a gastro consult because I had lost so much weight over the last month and a half. (Funny little side note - Dr. H and Dr. N both go to church with some of my coworkers)
Saturday's gastro consult didn't go well because Dr. N's on-call person (Dr. M) probably hadn't seen a pregnant person in years. So his initial decision was to continue my regular medicines for 48 hours. He did order a stool sample to check for bacteria.
Needless to say we were not pleased, and neither was Dr. H (the OB). So, Sunday morning, Dr. H came in the room with me when Dr. M came in. Dr. M was much more thorough. He really felt like my condition was not digestive but muscular or skeletal, but wanted to wait 24 hrs to have Dr. N see me (and the stool sample labs were not back yet). He added another medicine to try to see if coating my stomach with a soothing medicine would help (it didn't).
Dr. N. saw me on Monday and ordered some blood work and consulted more with the OB's. We spent the day trying to stay hydrated and waiting on all the lab results. By Tuesday all the tests came back clear. So, Dr. N ordered a CT scan (which requires drinking a bunch of banana flavored smoothy stuff laced with barium - not the most fun for a nauseated person but comparatively not too bad - I am still thankful for that). The CT scan showed nothing unusual, so we were back to square one. So one Wednesday they gave me an enema to make sure that everything was cleared out (which my colon was already empty, I would have been mad, but I felt like it helped flush out any barium that might have been in my system).
So on Thursday, Dr. N decided to start testing for some more rare conditions. I would tell you what they are, but I don't remember. I do know one was vasculitis and another is a metabolic disorder. So Thursday was spent with blood work, a 24 hour test, and trying to keep my fever gone, and trying to figure a way to get me comfortable enough to go home for the Easter weekend.
I was discharched on Good Friday with a bunch of prescriptions, a follow up appointment for Dr. N., instructions to make a follow up appointment with my OB, a present from some ladies who make encouragement presents for mom's on bed rest, and a misdelivered pink balloon which Erik happily adopted. I was also given words from Dr. N. that he thinks my condition is not digestive as they have seen pretty much all of my digestive system (I don't think they have seen my small intestine due to the baby). I am not out of the woods yet. And, he hopes to know more by my follow up appointment. He does already know that one of the rarer blood tests for inflamation is off the charts.
I had a good day Friday and ate well. However, around 10:00 Friday night the pain started again, and I got a horrible case of the chills. Todd had to hold me still I was shaking so much. The chills and pain continued most of the night and I ended up with a fever. I fought the fever all day yesterday (Saturday) so I didn't eat well at all.
Today I am feeling a little better. I don't think I have had a fever and I have already eated better (I ate breakfast!). Todd and Erik are gone to church. I am starting to feel tired again, but I guess that is to be expected.
So, here is a run down of the tests I have had:
A colonoscopy
An endoscopy
A gallbladder sononogram
A CT scan
A host of blood work
A 24 hour urine test
A stool sample for C-Diff
A sonogram of the baby and my ovaries (the baby looks great and is measuring a week bigger than his due date, and we are quite sure he is boy)
An enema (half treatment - half test)
A run down of results:
The baby looks great and kicks nurses and is head down
My digestive system is fairly normal except for what appears to be run of the mill IBS (I got to keep the protonix for heartburn so I can eat salsa again)
I don't appear to have gallstones or pancreatis or liver function problems
All my regular blood tests, stool sample, and other normal tests have been normal.
The 2 blood tests that might indiciate a more rare disorder: 1 came back slightly elevated but in the normal range for a pregnant woman, and 1 came back so high it is off the charts
A List of Challenges
Dealing with pain
Dealing with guilt for not being able to take better care of my family - Todd is doing a great job and Erik has been well behaved - I just long to have a more active mom role including doing some fun activities
Desiring to get back to work some - there are several things I need to do before my maternity leave - I know I can't do these things without help
Rebuilding strength - spending the week in the hospital and taking pain meds at night drops your blood pressure and zaps your energy - I currently don't feel able to drive, stand for about more time than it takes to have a shower, or to be left alone with Erik
Anemia
Eating - I am so nauseated and in pain that I don't really want to eat. It is a real struggle and it leads to dehydration. I also need to gain weight for the baby. I need to be able to eat well for the health of the baby and for my anemia. Additionally, eating often causes stomach spasms during a meal.
Getting ready for baby and packing a hospital bag
I need summer/spring maternity clothes
Figuring out a plan of what drugs will not upset my IBS when I deliver and having that plan in hand before delivery
Knowing what to do or who to call if my follow up with Dr. N leaves no plan of action (he has already said he doesn't know what to do since this does not appear digestive)
Pain from being in bed too long
Controling fever and dealing with the discomfort of having a fever (I get really nauseated and iritable)
Chills (due to both pain and fever)
Hoping my body progresses to labor very quickly and that the baby would be ready. Todd and I are going to talk to the OBs about inducing as soon as it seems things are ready (as close to 37 weeks as possible). However, we will have to know that the baby is physically ready and that my cervix is thinned. I have high hopes for this since I dialeted early with Erik.
I need to get my energy back enough to pay the bills and do our takes. This is an ASAP item.
I know there are more but my foggy mind can't recall them.
I will spend more time telling about the special things that happened at the hospital (visitors, the photo baby lady, Nurse Sharon, being able to see Todd again after not being able to for a couple of days) later.
In the mean time, Todd is a great Easter Bunny. Last night he brought me beautiful yellow roses which make me smile every time I see them. He put 11 of them in a vase on my vanity so I can see them in bed, and one in a bud vase so I can have it close to me on my bedside table. And he fixed Easter baskets for each of us. We all got candy and a snack size bag of chips. Erik also got Easter shaped sidewalk chalk. My Easter basket had extra bags of chips (Lays Original) because the salty light flavor tastes really good to me even when nothing else does. And, he bought ginger
ale (which tastes really good to me- but I have to be careful with I don't need to introduce too much gas into my already sensitive system).
Todd is great!!!!!!
I think I need a nap.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Random Thoughts
I don't normally follow men's ice skating, but I love the Olympics so I have followed it since the Olympics started. I think the Russian silver medal winner is being horribly unsportsman-like. I watched the short program. I didn't really pay that much attention (I was too busy being shocked by the costumes), but the Russian skater, the Chinese skater and Evan Lysacek all did very well. Their jumps were polished, their footwork looked difficult yet effortless, and their artistry was good. I paid more attention when I watched the free skate (aka long program) because I knew so much was on the line. The Chinese skater fell on one of his jumps, and his artistry was not as good as the Russian and Evan. Then Evan skated. His artistry was great (he is tall so his artistry really shows when it is done well or done with half effort), and he had a lot of difficult footwork. All of his jumps were landed perfectly. There was no wobbling, flailing body parts, etc. It was like the ice was rising up to meet him. He didn't do a quad jump. But he did a lot of triples and many of them were at the end of the program (showing more control, strength, and endurance - thus bonus points for jumps occurring after the 2:15 point in the program). The Russian did do a quad jump - but barely. All of his jumps were barely landed - doubles, triples, and the quad. He wobbled, waved his arms, nearly touched the ice, etc. just to stay on his feet in all but one double jump. AND, all his jumps occured at the beginning of the program (he had no jumps at all in the last full minute of the program), so they should have been a lot better. His artistry was half-efforted. I thought he looked like he was "phoning it in." His footwork was fine, but I didn't notice it to be outstanding. So basically, the Russian is a sore loser. He may have more ability than Evan (I don't know), but he does not have the same control and consistency as Evan. Ability doesn't win completions, performance do. Consistent and appropriate training make performances (practice makes perfect).
Which brings me to another point... what is the deal with the current culture that men dress so femininely. I don't think guys have to wear baggy or un-stylish clothing. I love the look of a smartly dressed guy. But, skinny jeans and sequins (the ice skating connection here), is just wrong. If you are a guy and want to wear a tight shirt or sweater, fine. But at least wear it with regular pants or a good pair of Levi's 501's. It is so weird to me to see couples walking around, and the guy's skinny jeans are showing off more figure than his nicely dressed girl friend.
I read on someone's blog that they missed being pregnant because everything tasted so good when they were pregnant. Well, I have not had that experience! Not with either pregnancy. I love sweets, for example. They do not taste all that good to me. Lactose free ice cream is still really good, but a lot of other sweets just taste sugary - like the other flavors that make it good (vanilla, cinnamon, etc.) aren't there. Spicy things are hotter to me when I am pregnant. Salads are flavorless. Vinegary things (other than pickles and olives) like balsamic vinaigrette's taste too strong. With my last pregnancy I craved avocados (a local restaurant had the best grilled chicken and avocado sandwich). I haven't really even had avocados with this pregnancy. I should get some. They are so healthy, and I bet they would taste great. The mild salsa at Hacienda (a little restaurant by my office) tastes great, though!
For Valentine's we got to use some gift cards and ate at J. Alexander's. It was delightful. Normally J. Alexander's is out of our budget, but we had quite a lot in gift cards (thanks Counter Dimensions) so we were able to order peel and eat shrimp for an appetizer and we both had steaks. My steak was perfect. And, the baked potato was excellent. I don't know how they did it but it was fluffy inside. I am so used to baked potatoes at restaurants being underdone. This one was perfect. I must figure out how they cook them.
I also got flowers for Valentine's this year. I haven't gotten flowers in a long time. Todd usually likes to spend the money we have budgeted on more gift rather than less gift and flowers. I certainly appreciate this sentiment (in fact I will rarely spend money on greeting cards for birthdays for this same reason), but there is something so feminine about receiving flowers or jewelry for Valentine's. It just makes you feel like the love of your spouses life.
We are trying to decide whether to put the new baby in the same room as Erik or put the new baby in the office. I don't mind putting both boys in one room, but we will lose the guest space (right now guests stay in Erik's room). However, we keep the office space (which will have to be redone because that room ends up being a dump for clutter and it makes me crazy). If we put the new baby in the office, Erik's room will be his room/guest space (Erik will sleep in the baby's room when there are guests)/ play room (this will get the toys out of the living room). I think we would put the desk in the living room (I have a beautiful antique desk that my parents gave us that needs to have the finish completed), but this will require some significant technology changes and figuring out what to do with all of our books and games (I am thinking of built in shelves in the dining room). The problem is we have a small house (which I am content with), but with a small house storage solutions and appropriate furniture become very important. Affording such storage and furniture is a bit of a problem for us. So we will see. I do have some cute ideas in mind for both situations, and I am looking forward to doing some big boy room stuff for Erik. The new baby's theme will be safari/monkey (it will be a much needed change for me from the trains/trucks of Erik and I really think Erik will like the monkey theme for his little bro since he is a huge Curious George fan).
I am working on a baby registry for the new baby right now. We basically registered at Target last night, but I already think there are some changes that I want to make to it. For starters, I put a double stroller on it (the kind where the baby goes in front and the older child can sit/stand on the back). Todd really thinks Erik has about out-grown the stroller (we currently have a nice single stroller). However, I always use the stroller when Todd is not with us. I know I can't carry two kids around stores on my own (I can't really carry Erik around stores now - he weighs around 30 lbs). So, I am leaning towards the stroller. However, I don't want to spend a bunch of money on a stroller that won't get used that long, and I already hate how much room the stroller takes up in the back of my vehicle. So, I am not sure what to do. I remember how Heather loved her double stroller when her kids were little; however, I know she hasn't used it that much with the last of her 4.
I had an interesting impromptu visit to the doctor the other day. I thought I was at the start of a bladder infection, and I called the doctor. They were not sure sure (I wasn't totally sure) so they wanted me to come in and check for signs of premature labor (I was pretty sure that wasn't the case - but either way I was hurting so I came right in). My labs showed that I didn't have a UTI, so they checked my cervix. That was just like it was supposed to be, but the doctor said the baby was sitting very low and she could feel his head or bottom sitting right on it. So, the pain was caused by the baby putting pressure on the ligaments at the base of my abdomen and my bladder. I went home and stayed in bed for a while. Fortunately he has moved some and the pain stopped. I may have to get one of those maternity support belts later on, but hopefully not (that seems like it would be hot to wear here in the South).
I am now 6 months pregnant and starting to feel pressure to get the house ready to have a new family member. I know most of May will be spent with end of the year work activities and generally feeling huge. So, I am hoping to do most of the work (including Spring cleaning) before then. We will see how it goes.
I am so looking forward to warmer weather.
I hope to post some pictures later in the week. We had snow last Friday. For the last 3 years in a row, we have gotten a picture of Erik and I standing in the snow together facing the same direction in our front yard. I think the pics are so cool.
Erik loved Valentine's day. He got to spend the night with Nana and Pawpaw so Todd and I got to go on a date. As far as Erik is concerned, he had more of a treat then we did. Nana and Pawpaw's house is one of his favorite places to be. He loves to read the big train picture book with Nana, play with Pawpaw and Uncle David, and Nana lets him drink the Clear America soda's that Wal-mart makes (Erik calls them strawberry Sprite's). Nana got him a Thomas the Train movie for Valentine's, and we got him a Matchbox police car and some chocolates for Valentine's. Erik declared, "I love Valentine's!"
Erik's birthday is coming up. I am not the picture of energy right now, so I would love to do a party some place that is not in our home. However, I called Pump it Up - their parties are $165 plus food, and Chick-fil-A is $150 including food, but no cake included. That is way out of our birthday price range. So, I think the party will be here, but I may call in favors from Aunt LeeLee and Nana to pull off the party.
My birthday is coming up on Tuesday. It doesn't even seem like it is going to be possible with so much going on. Work has missions conference, ladies' luncheon that day at work, my mom has jury duty, I have work, house work, so much going on. I imagine that the date will just fly right by me almost unnoticed. That is a bit sad to me. I have always been one of those people who want to have fun for a couple days around birthdays. I think it comes from growing up with a winter birthday. I always had to go to school on my birthday which basically means the day is a non event and then you would have your party on the weekend. So, my parents kind of made every day between the birthday and the party a little fun (maybe just watching an old movie but still fun). So, now I want to have fun all week long. I guess I am just a girl looking for a party. LOL!
I am starting to worry about going into labor. My labor was induced with Erik 6 days before his due date. Another doctor in the practice scheduled me for it; he didn't really think I would even make it to the date. I did (however, I came in with mild contractions that weren't hurting and dilated 4 centimeters, completely effaced - so I think the induction changed Erik's birth time by a matter of hours). Now, however, medical thought is that inducing before a due date is in general not a great practice, and my personal doctor is not that big in interventions unless there is a lot of indication (which is part of why I like her - agressive when needed but pretty laid back). They worry for me is that because I have painful gastrological flare ups- that involves muscle cramps/spasms - that I won't know I am in labor (rather than a flare up) until it is quite progressed. I delivered Erik very quickly (about 5 hours from start to finish with only pushing 3 or 4 times), and I worry that perhaps I won't make it to the hospital in time. This is probably a stupid fear, but it is bouncing around in my mind none the less.
I am also worried about the epidural this time, too. I am a fan of the epidural and plan to get it. However, St. Vincent's policy is to give patients who get any anesthesia dose of Raglan (a very strong anti acid). Anti acids constipate me a lot. Last time, I didn't go to the bathroom for 5 days after having Erik - this combined with an episiotomy - meant that the week after having Erik was pretty excruciating. When I had my throat surgery, they backed it down for me from Raglan to Pepcid, but I still had problems (and I was on a liquid diet). You see, anti acids are in general constipating, anesthesia is in general constipating, and the hormones involved in labor and delivery generally shut your digestive system down for a couple of days. At least, they know that I have IBS and chronic constipation so they can be mindful of it, but I don't want a huge problem. Hopefully I won't have to have an episitomy this time which will help.
Well, I think that is all for now. I hope to post pictures later.
Which brings me to another point... what is the deal with the current culture that men dress so femininely. I don't think guys have to wear baggy or un-stylish clothing. I love the look of a smartly dressed guy. But, skinny jeans and sequins (the ice skating connection here), is just wrong. If you are a guy and want to wear a tight shirt or sweater, fine. But at least wear it with regular pants or a good pair of Levi's 501's. It is so weird to me to see couples walking around, and the guy's skinny jeans are showing off more figure than his nicely dressed girl friend.
I read on someone's blog that they missed being pregnant because everything tasted so good when they were pregnant. Well, I have not had that experience! Not with either pregnancy. I love sweets, for example. They do not taste all that good to me. Lactose free ice cream is still really good, but a lot of other sweets just taste sugary - like the other flavors that make it good (vanilla, cinnamon, etc.) aren't there. Spicy things are hotter to me when I am pregnant. Salads are flavorless. Vinegary things (other than pickles and olives) like balsamic vinaigrette's taste too strong. With my last pregnancy I craved avocados (a local restaurant had the best grilled chicken and avocado sandwich). I haven't really even had avocados with this pregnancy. I should get some. They are so healthy, and I bet they would taste great. The mild salsa at Hacienda (a little restaurant by my office) tastes great, though!
For Valentine's we got to use some gift cards and ate at J. Alexander's. It was delightful. Normally J. Alexander's is out of our budget, but we had quite a lot in gift cards (thanks Counter Dimensions) so we were able to order peel and eat shrimp for an appetizer and we both had steaks. My steak was perfect. And, the baked potato was excellent. I don't know how they did it but it was fluffy inside. I am so used to baked potatoes at restaurants being underdone. This one was perfect. I must figure out how they cook them.
I also got flowers for Valentine's this year. I haven't gotten flowers in a long time. Todd usually likes to spend the money we have budgeted on more gift rather than less gift and flowers. I certainly appreciate this sentiment (in fact I will rarely spend money on greeting cards for birthdays for this same reason), but there is something so feminine about receiving flowers or jewelry for Valentine's. It just makes you feel like the love of your spouses life.
We are trying to decide whether to put the new baby in the same room as Erik or put the new baby in the office. I don't mind putting both boys in one room, but we will lose the guest space (right now guests stay in Erik's room). However, we keep the office space (which will have to be redone because that room ends up being a dump for clutter and it makes me crazy). If we put the new baby in the office, Erik's room will be his room/guest space (Erik will sleep in the baby's room when there are guests)/ play room (this will get the toys out of the living room). I think we would put the desk in the living room (I have a beautiful antique desk that my parents gave us that needs to have the finish completed), but this will require some significant technology changes and figuring out what to do with all of our books and games (I am thinking of built in shelves in the dining room). The problem is we have a small house (which I am content with), but with a small house storage solutions and appropriate furniture become very important. Affording such storage and furniture is a bit of a problem for us. So we will see. I do have some cute ideas in mind for both situations, and I am looking forward to doing some big boy room stuff for Erik. The new baby's theme will be safari/monkey (it will be a much needed change for me from the trains/trucks of Erik and I really think Erik will like the monkey theme for his little bro since he is a huge Curious George fan).
I am working on a baby registry for the new baby right now. We basically registered at Target last night, but I already think there are some changes that I want to make to it. For starters, I put a double stroller on it (the kind where the baby goes in front and the older child can sit/stand on the back). Todd really thinks Erik has about out-grown the stroller (we currently have a nice single stroller). However, I always use the stroller when Todd is not with us. I know I can't carry two kids around stores on my own (I can't really carry Erik around stores now - he weighs around 30 lbs). So, I am leaning towards the stroller. However, I don't want to spend a bunch of money on a stroller that won't get used that long, and I already hate how much room the stroller takes up in the back of my vehicle. So, I am not sure what to do. I remember how Heather loved her double stroller when her kids were little; however, I know she hasn't used it that much with the last of her 4.
I had an interesting impromptu visit to the doctor the other day. I thought I was at the start of a bladder infection, and I called the doctor. They were not sure sure (I wasn't totally sure) so they wanted me to come in and check for signs of premature labor (I was pretty sure that wasn't the case - but either way I was hurting so I came right in). My labs showed that I didn't have a UTI, so they checked my cervix. That was just like it was supposed to be, but the doctor said the baby was sitting very low and she could feel his head or bottom sitting right on it. So, the pain was caused by the baby putting pressure on the ligaments at the base of my abdomen and my bladder. I went home and stayed in bed for a while. Fortunately he has moved some and the pain stopped. I may have to get one of those maternity support belts later on, but hopefully not (that seems like it would be hot to wear here in the South).
I am now 6 months pregnant and starting to feel pressure to get the house ready to have a new family member. I know most of May will be spent with end of the year work activities and generally feeling huge. So, I am hoping to do most of the work (including Spring cleaning) before then. We will see how it goes.
I am so looking forward to warmer weather.
I hope to post some pictures later in the week. We had snow last Friday. For the last 3 years in a row, we have gotten a picture of Erik and I standing in the snow together facing the same direction in our front yard. I think the pics are so cool.
Erik loved Valentine's day. He got to spend the night with Nana and Pawpaw so Todd and I got to go on a date. As far as Erik is concerned, he had more of a treat then we did. Nana and Pawpaw's house is one of his favorite places to be. He loves to read the big train picture book with Nana, play with Pawpaw and Uncle David, and Nana lets him drink the Clear America soda's that Wal-mart makes (Erik calls them strawberry Sprite's). Nana got him a Thomas the Train movie for Valentine's, and we got him a Matchbox police car and some chocolates for Valentine's. Erik declared, "I love Valentine's!"
Erik's birthday is coming up. I am not the picture of energy right now, so I would love to do a party some place that is not in our home. However, I called Pump it Up - their parties are $165 plus food, and Chick-fil-A is $150 including food, but no cake included. That is way out of our birthday price range. So, I think the party will be here, but I may call in favors from Aunt LeeLee and Nana to pull off the party.
My birthday is coming up on Tuesday. It doesn't even seem like it is going to be possible with so much going on. Work has missions conference, ladies' luncheon that day at work, my mom has jury duty, I have work, house work, so much going on. I imagine that the date will just fly right by me almost unnoticed. That is a bit sad to me. I have always been one of those people who want to have fun for a couple days around birthdays. I think it comes from growing up with a winter birthday. I always had to go to school on my birthday which basically means the day is a non event and then you would have your party on the weekend. So, my parents kind of made every day between the birthday and the party a little fun (maybe just watching an old movie but still fun). So, now I want to have fun all week long. I guess I am just a girl looking for a party. LOL!
I am starting to worry about going into labor. My labor was induced with Erik 6 days before his due date. Another doctor in the practice scheduled me for it; he didn't really think I would even make it to the date. I did (however, I came in with mild contractions that weren't hurting and dilated 4 centimeters, completely effaced - so I think the induction changed Erik's birth time by a matter of hours). Now, however, medical thought is that inducing before a due date is in general not a great practice, and my personal doctor is not that big in interventions unless there is a lot of indication (which is part of why I like her - agressive when needed but pretty laid back). They worry for me is that because I have painful gastrological flare ups- that involves muscle cramps/spasms - that I won't know I am in labor (rather than a flare up) until it is quite progressed. I delivered Erik very quickly (about 5 hours from start to finish with only pushing 3 or 4 times), and I worry that perhaps I won't make it to the hospital in time. This is probably a stupid fear, but it is bouncing around in my mind none the less.
I am also worried about the epidural this time, too. I am a fan of the epidural and plan to get it. However, St. Vincent's policy is to give patients who get any anesthesia dose of Raglan (a very strong anti acid). Anti acids constipate me a lot. Last time, I didn't go to the bathroom for 5 days after having Erik - this combined with an episiotomy - meant that the week after having Erik was pretty excruciating. When I had my throat surgery, they backed it down for me from Raglan to Pepcid, but I still had problems (and I was on a liquid diet). You see, anti acids are in general constipating, anesthesia is in general constipating, and the hormones involved in labor and delivery generally shut your digestive system down for a couple of days. At least, they know that I have IBS and chronic constipation so they can be mindful of it, but I don't want a huge problem. Hopefully I won't have to have an episitomy this time which will help.
Well, I think that is all for now. I hope to post pictures later.
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