I still have not spoken with surgery to find out more from their perspective. But I did speak with our resident about the tube. I was correct that it is the same tube and will be going to the same place. The only difference is that eventually we want it going through her gtube. So the reason they were not able to get it through Wednesday was because apparently it is harder to navigate through the gtube.
Teryn has had such a hard time resting. She had a very fussy night last night. Probably because she was hungry. Then all day today as soon as she would fall asleep someone would come in to change her IV, or try to get her tube in place, or do an xray. Around 1:30 they were ready for her to go down to radiology to see if they could get her current ND tube in place so she can eat.
She was so tired she fell asleep again on the way down there.
We got her in and placed her on the table. We had to wait because they could not find the orders in the computer. The orders were finally ready and the doctor came in. Right on cue Teryn's monitor started alarming. First it was just because her oxygen level was going down. The nurse sat her up to get her breathing again. She was so sleepy that it was hard to get her stimulated. Her 02 continued to go down. Then she started to brady (decreased heart rate). This has only happened on a few occasions. As we watched both rates continued to go down. The doctor got one of the residents on the phone and said that either he needed to get down there or take her back up because he wouldn't do the procedure with her current stats. The resident came down and thought maybe the monitors were not picking up correctly in relation to her heart rate but she continued to cease breathing. Her nurse and I were simultaneously stimulating her until we finally got her mad enough to wake up screaming at us. At that point that is what we wanted.
Ultimately we decided that she had been messed with way more than enough today. She really needed to get some rest. When she gets overtired it is difficult for her to fall asleep without desatting. So we are back in the NICU where we quickly changed her diaper and got her comfortable so she can get some uninterrupted sleep. We are hoping that maybe the tube will eventually works its way down into the correct place like it did last time. She will be having more xrays to check the placement. If it gets back in place then they will start her feeds again. If not, then she will go down to radiology again tomorrow for another try.
She is getting so big. She weighs 10 pounds and 4 ounces now. I took a picture of her today in one of her outfits that used to be too big. I have a picture of her wearing it at 3 weeks and then one today. I will try to get them posted so you can see the comparison.
Friday, April 30, 2010
More tube issues
Thought I would add another video of Teryn for your enjoyment and so Gavin can interpret. Our newest nephew who is only a month older than Teryn heard her talking on the video and was talking back to her. SO cute. Can't wait until they can play together.
Okay, here is the update. As you know, the procedure on Wednesday to advance the gtube was unsuccessful. Yesterday Teryn woke up from her nap at around 3:00 and needed to be suctioned which is very normal for her when she is sucking on her paci. However she had just woken up and we heard gurgling so the nurse suctioned her. Then I saw it coming out of her nose. It didn't look like saliva so I asked the nurse, "What does that look like to you." She responded, "It looks like milk." Completely dumbfounded I said, "How can that be possible?" The reason this should be impossible is because she has an ND tube that goes from her nose to her small intestines. The only way she could reflux is if there was food in her stomach.
The nurse walked away to get some sterile cleaning supplies and I looked at Teryn's gtube. In the outer part of the tube there was definitely milk. This meant that her ND tube was not back in place after the procedure yesterday. The nurse came back so I showed her and she confirmed that there was definitely milk in her stomach and the tube must have moved during the procedure.
The resident came in and they pulled the tube out a little and tried to reposition it back correctly. The x-ray showed the tube was coiled in her stomach and was not progressing the way they wanted it. So they tried again hoping her stomach would gradually move it down. (The last time this was done it took several days to get it in place.) As of this morning they had to put her on IV to keep her hydrated while they waited. There have been two more unsuccessful attempts to get the tube in place. They mentioned having her go down to radiology and have it placed under xray guidance. Here is my issue that I am still waiting on an answer for:
The unsuccessful procedure on Wednesday was using the ND tube (same one they are trying with now) thread through her gtube. This was done under xray guidance and they were not able to do it. This was the one the doc wanted to wait 10 more days before trying again. So, if they are wanting to go down and try to insert just the ND why not go ahead and retry with the gtube. I mean, it is the same tube ultimately, just going through her gtube instead of her nose. I am waiting to hear back from them about this. Maybe there is a component I am missing but why am I the one to think of this?
I have asked everyone who will listen why surgery said they would not redo her fundo surgery. Let me make it very clear, I DO NOT want Teryn to have another surgery. However, every alternative option has been shown unsuccessful and there is no plan B. Believe me, I asked again this morning and had 8 doctors all looking at me blankly with no answer as to an alternative plan. At our home hospital the only option we had left was to redo the fundo. We came here because we hoped to have an alternative. Now it seems we are full circle right back where we started in terms of her feedings. I have not gotten an answer about surgery's rationale. I have asked to have them come and speak to me. Obviously if there is a heightened risk for Teryn then I do not want them to do it and I agree with their decision. I am just still wondering....where is the plan B? They have mentioned giving her a larger tube in hopes that they can thread it better....but....that is another SURGERY!
So right now, she is on IV fluids and no feeds. This is her second IV in 2 days because hers go bad so easily.
I am hoping to have some clearer answers by the end of the day. I will post if I hear anything. Looking at the positive...Teryn gave me a BIG smile again today. This is great news in terms of her development. There were concerns for her neurologically and this just confirms what I know in my heart....God made Teryn and He has control. The doctors are just people. They are not the ones who created her. Science and textbook knowledge only go so far. Do not underestimate our family's will and especially this mommy's will for our precious little girl to do amazing things.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Unsuccessful Procedure
Teryn had a good night last night and is having an okay day today. She has had a few episodes where we have had to go up on her oxygen. One of the instances I requested it because she was awake and I could see her turning gray.
She got to go up a little on her feeds to correlate with her weight. She is getting to be a chunky little monkey.
This morning during rounds they said they will not be doing the procedure today to advance her gtube. Apparently they were having a hard time finding a tube small enough for her. So I asked the doctors , "What if we can't get a tube small enough?' Their response was "uh," as they all looked around at each other for answers. I got the impression that there wasn't a plan B in place.
A few hours later her resident came in all excited saying they thought they had a solution. She would be going down to radiology shortly and the doctor down there was going to advance an ND tube (exactly the same as the one in her nose) through her gtube and through her stomach and pyloric valve into her small intestines.
We got down there and the first problem was that the doctor looked and said they could not use her current tube, they would have to switch it out for a mic-key, or button. This wasn't so bad since this one would have less of an external tube. This is good since Teryn likes to grab and pull things.
After over an hour the doctor came out and said they were unsuccessful. He was having a hard time getting the tube through her stomach and did not want to force it and risk perforation of her stomach. He said his suggestion was to try again in 10 days. Are you kidding me? And even then, there is no guarantee it will work.
We got back up to NICU and the resident came over. He said, "I guess we will try again in a few days." My reply, "No, 10 days is not a few." I asked what other options there were. Redoing the fundo surgery would have been the first suggestion to reduce the reflux so she can have food in her stomach. However, surgery will not redo it. He said they will keep looking for another tube option and try again in 10 days with the same tube or another if it is found.
They do not want to retry feeding through her stomach because she is unable to handle swallowing her own saliva, they are too concerned that if she refluxes she could aspirate which could possible result in pneumonia.
I am SO frustrated. I don't feel like we are any closer to coming home. Even when things improve it seems like they eventually fall back again. This is getting harder and harder every day. Please pray for me as you are praying for Teryn. I really need a faith boost. I am getting a little discouraged.
Even with frustrating news, I have some very exciting news....Teryn SMILED!!! It was her first official, no doubt about it voluntary smile. She was in her bed lying on her side as she and I were doing some therapy play time. I was talking to her and she locked eyes with me and smiled. Talk about melting your heart. I will hopefully get a picture of this soon.
She got to go up a little on her feeds to correlate with her weight. She is getting to be a chunky little monkey.
This morning during rounds they said they will not be doing the procedure today to advance her gtube. Apparently they were having a hard time finding a tube small enough for her. So I asked the doctors , "What if we can't get a tube small enough?' Their response was "uh," as they all looked around at each other for answers. I got the impression that there wasn't a plan B in place.
A few hours later her resident came in all excited saying they thought they had a solution. She would be going down to radiology shortly and the doctor down there was going to advance an ND tube (exactly the same as the one in her nose) through her gtube and through her stomach and pyloric valve into her small intestines.
We got down there and the first problem was that the doctor looked and said they could not use her current tube, they would have to switch it out for a mic-key, or button. This wasn't so bad since this one would have less of an external tube. This is good since Teryn likes to grab and pull things.
After over an hour the doctor came out and said they were unsuccessful. He was having a hard time getting the tube through her stomach and did not want to force it and risk perforation of her stomach. He said his suggestion was to try again in 10 days. Are you kidding me? And even then, there is no guarantee it will work.
We got back up to NICU and the resident came over. He said, "I guess we will try again in a few days." My reply, "No, 10 days is not a few." I asked what other options there were. Redoing the fundo surgery would have been the first suggestion to reduce the reflux so she can have food in her stomach. However, surgery will not redo it. He said they will keep looking for another tube option and try again in 10 days with the same tube or another if it is found.
They do not want to retry feeding through her stomach because she is unable to handle swallowing her own saliva, they are too concerned that if she refluxes she could aspirate which could possible result in pneumonia.
I am SO frustrated. I don't feel like we are any closer to coming home. Even when things improve it seems like they eventually fall back again. This is getting harder and harder every day. Please pray for me as you are praying for Teryn. I really need a faith boost. I am getting a little discouraged.
Even with frustrating news, I have some very exciting news....Teryn SMILED!!! It was her first official, no doubt about it voluntary smile. She was in her bed lying on her side as she and I were doing some therapy play time. I was talking to her and she locked eyes with me and smiled. Talk about melting your heart. I will hopefully get a picture of this soon.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Teryn talking and tube tomorrow
Teryn is such a verbal little girl. She starts cooing as soon as she wakes up. This is how we know when she is really awake. She hasn't been quite as talkative over the past week since she began the antseizure meds because they make her so sleepy. However, I did catch a little bit of her most recent conversation with us. (The other voice you hear in the background is her nurse.)
Well the original plan was to try and have Teryn's gtube advanced today so we can get the tube out of her nose.
When I arrived this morning I found out that this is not going to happen today. They have rescheduled for tomorrow because she had 2 episodes last night where she had to be bagged. The nurse asked me if I already knew...NO, I am a little perturbed that I never know what is going on until I come in and ask. Maybe I am a little spoiled from my previous nurses at GCMC who always kept me informed which I appreciated so much. I mean, I am here all the time except to eat, shower, and sleep....obviously I care about what is going on with my daughter....call me please.
Another thing that is so aggravating about the whole situation is that these type of events only ever happen when I am not here. Looks like James and I are going to work in shifts when he comes next week.
On a good note, she is having a good day today. Had a great time with tummy-time therapy today. Her neck is so strong. Also, her physical therapist came by and said that her tone is improving. She is not nearly as stiff as she was. When she is stressed she tightens her muscles and pushes down hard with her arms and legs. We have been working on stretches and exercises and she is doing so much better. Also, she has finished her antibiotics so we got rid of the IV again thankfully. Over the course of the 10 day treatment she had to have 4 different IV's placed because they kept going bad. Hopefully we are done with those.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Spring Fling Fundraiser
Friday night was our school's Spring Fling. Last year was the first year and it was a hit and so much fun. It is so great to have the opportunity to see the kiddos outside of the classroom with their families. I was very sad to have missed it.
As I was settling back into my room after a long day at the hospital I received an email from my dad. It had a picture of a poster:
My wonderful Waller family had an impromptu fundraiser to help alleviate some of our rising expenses related to Teryn's hospital stay.
I was extremely touched and even more sad that I had to miss out on the fun. My school family is truly a family. I am so blessed to be with such an amazing group of coworkers, students, and parents.
Even though I had to miss the festivities my parents and James made it for the fun. Next year Teryn and I will be there ready for sno-cones, cotton candy, and fun games.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Good theory?
Teryn had a great day today. When I got here this morning the nurse said she had one desat when she was changing her diaper. However, she also said that she had a lot of saliva in her mouth that she was choking on. Once she suctioned her she was fine. Throughout the rest of the day she only had one other desat. We had to wake her to do her assessment and change her diaper. As soon as we rolled her on her back she wanted to fall back asleep. She was too relaxed and her tongue rolled back to block her airway. A gentle little nudge and she fixed it.
So....maybe my theory was right that the anti-seizure meds are going to help with her central apnea. The plan is still to modify the gtube next week. Eventually they will wean her off of the caffeine. If she can control the apnea after that then we will be doing great.
Feeling very optimistic. I spoke at length with her nurse today who was visiting from another unit. She usually works with children who have much more severe issues. She was very optimistic about Teryn's diagnosis and agrees with me that Teryn shouldn't need any surgeries for her breathing.
Finally leaving the hospital to get something to eat now that it is almost 9:00. Goodnight everyone.
So....maybe my theory was right that the anti-seizure meds are going to help with her central apnea. The plan is still to modify the gtube next week. Eventually they will wean her off of the caffeine. If she can control the apnea after that then we will be doing great.
Feeling very optimistic. I spoke at length with her nurse today who was visiting from another unit. She usually works with children who have much more severe issues. She was very optimistic about Teryn's diagnosis and agrees with me that Teryn shouldn't need any surgeries for her breathing.
Finally leaving the hospital to get something to eat now that it is almost 9:00. Goodnight everyone.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Neurology/VEEG report
I spoke with the neurology nurse practitioner yesterday and got a little more detailed report about the VEEG results.
While Teryn was undergoing this procedure there was a red button that was to be pushed anytime someone saw suspicious activity from her. This could include apnea as well as unusual limb movement or blank staring.
Over the night there were 3 of these events recorded. The first event was apnea alone. The second event was within a few minutes after the first. This event included seizure activity as well as an apnic episode. This total event lasted between 60-70 seconds (not necessairly 60-70 seconds of apnea...just a duration of the breathing issues and brain activity combined). The third event recorded was strictly apnea.
The good news is that there was only one recorded seizure as opposed to several that I was originally told. Also, I was originally told that the apneas and seizures were independent of each other during this test. Based on the timing of the events, this is possibly untrue. The second event very clearly had an apnea event with it.
Strange to say, but this could be a positive thing. Reason being....maybe once the anti seizure meds are regulated on their maintenance dose maybe the apneas will improve. This is my own theory and not one of a doctor. But hey they are just making shots in the dark with some things too.
While Teryn was undergoing this procedure there was a red button that was to be pushed anytime someone saw suspicious activity from her. This could include apnea as well as unusual limb movement or blank staring.
Over the night there were 3 of these events recorded. The first event was apnea alone. The second event was within a few minutes after the first. This event included seizure activity as well as an apnic episode. This total event lasted between 60-70 seconds (not necessairly 60-70 seconds of apnea...just a duration of the breathing issues and brain activity combined). The third event recorded was strictly apnea.
The good news is that there was only one recorded seizure as opposed to several that I was originally told. Also, I was originally told that the apneas and seizures were independent of each other during this test. Based on the timing of the events, this is possibly untrue. The second event very clearly had an apnea event with it.
Strange to say, but this could be a positive thing. Reason being....maybe once the anti seizure meds are regulated on their maintenance dose maybe the apneas will improve. This is my own theory and not one of a doctor. But hey they are just making shots in the dark with some things too.
We don't know specifically what has caused the seizures. It could be any of the neurological issues she has or even the fact that she had a time where she did not have optimal oxygen after birth.
Last night I was here with her to give her a bath and get her settled for the night. She was awake for almost a 2 hour stretch and was completely calm and happy. She loved her bath and didn't fuss a bit. She especially loves having her head rubbed and brushed. It is so cute, her little eyes roll back and get so heavy. Once she was settled in for the night she did not have any desats or apneas. So far today she has only had one minor desat that she corrected on her own. She continues to be on a nasal cannula that is pumping room air just as a precaution since her seizure episode. I am sure she will get to come off of that soon. She is back up to full feeds and therefore does not have the IV hooked up all day anymore. Only 3 times a day for a half hour to receive her antibiotics. Tomorrow should be her last day of antibiotics and hopefully we will be IV free again.
Probably the beginning of next week we should have the procedure to have her gtube advanced which will mean we can take the tube out of her nose. This is a noninvasive procedure and doesn't need a recovery time other than lowering her feeding rate and then increasing gradually to be sure she is tolerating it well.
After this is done all she will have on her are the monitor probes. YAY!!!!!
I am holding up much better today. The initial report of the seizures was pretty tough to handle, especially since James had driven back home and I was here alone. I spend every second I can sitting in the NICU with Teryn since seeing her always makes me happy. I keep telling her about all of you who are loving her from far away. We are still blessed in so many ways. I have a beautiful little girl that I get to see and hold and love everyday. Just that makes me abundantly blessed beyond so many others.
Here are some pictures from when she was hooked up for the VEEG.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
VEEG Results
I received the preliminary results from the neurology nurse practitioner. The video EEG done between around 2pm yesterday and 9am this morning showed that Teryn had several seizures. I do not know the definite number. I will be speaking with the neurologist tomorrow for another report.
She is going to get her first dose of anti-seizure meds in just a few minutes. They will check her levels tomorrow and then begin a series of maintenance doses.
To make matters even more frustrating....none of the seizures were with her apnea episodes during this time. SO, she was having 2 severe problems during the same time period but apparently completely independent of each other.
I am so frustrated and overwhelmed. It seems like as soon as she has a good couple of days we are slammed with something else that is worse. I know God has a plan and I am trying to be strong but at times like this it is very difficult. She is such a fighter. She has had to endure more in her 9 weeks of life than most people do in a lifetime.
Please continue to pray for us. For answers, for strength, for guidance, for healing, for comfort, and for faith.
She is going to get her first dose of anti-seizure meds in just a few minutes. They will check her levels tomorrow and then begin a series of maintenance doses.
To make matters even more frustrating....none of the seizures were with her apnea episodes during this time. SO, she was having 2 severe problems during the same time period but apparently completely independent of each other.
I am so frustrated and overwhelmed. It seems like as soon as she has a good couple of days we are slammed with something else that is worse. I know God has a plan and I am trying to be strong but at times like this it is very difficult. She is such a fighter. She has had to endure more in her 9 weeks of life than most people do in a lifetime.
Please continue to pray for us. For answers, for strength, for guidance, for healing, for comfort, and for faith.
Seizure?
Yesterday James and I left around lunch time so that we could eat and he could get on the road. When I returned to the hospital a few hours later things were not as they had been when I left. As I walked over to Teryn's bed I saw that she had the probes all over her head again, she was hooked up to the video EEG, and she had a new IV started. I looked at her nurse and asked why they were doing another EEG because the other one had been fine. She said, "The residents didn't call you?" Uh, no. What in the world was going on?
Here is what happened...about 15 minutes after we left Teryn got very fussy. Her nurse was rocking her to sleep and then her alarms started sounding. She looked at her and she had turned blue, her breathing had stopped and her heart rate was decreasing. She placed her in her bed and tried stimulating her which usually works. She was not responding to the stimulation so they had to bag her (oxygen). She had to have this done twice and on one of the occasions for a duration of 2 minutes. The resident came in and said he believed she was at the end of a seizure.
They immediately ordered to have another video EEG done. Her feeds were stopped in case they needed to give her a breathing tube, and labs were done of urine, blood, and cultures. They did chest xrays and everything was fine there. They also hooked her up to a nasal cannula which is a tube that slips into her nostrils to keep oxygen flowing in case she stops breathing. Because they stopped the feedings, they had to start her on another IV for her nutrition.
She was alert and happy when I saw her. As soon as she heard my voice she began cooing away to tell me what had happened. I called back around 11pm and she had been very fussy all evening since I left. She was hungry and uncomfortable because she had to be on her back with no clothes, no blankets. She sleeps so much better on her tummy.
So this morning I found out that she had a couple of apnic episodes throughout the night that needed stimulation but no bagging. When the VEEG was done this am I asked if she could be placed on her tummy. As soon as she was placed on her belly she fell asleep.
The doctors came in for rounds and as of right now there are no results from anything. The VEEG results should be back by this afternoon. They are going to keep her off of feeds until tomorrow so that her body can readjust. The surgeons decided that she is not a candidate for a revision of her fundo so for feeding our only other option is to have her gtube advanced which means she will definitely be on continuous feeds through her feeding pump when we go home. The advancement of the gtube could have been done this Wednesday or Thursday but because of the infection they are going to wait until that is resolved.
More waiting games and more questions without answers.
Here is what happened...about 15 minutes after we left Teryn got very fussy. Her nurse was rocking her to sleep and then her alarms started sounding. She looked at her and she had turned blue, her breathing had stopped and her heart rate was decreasing. She placed her in her bed and tried stimulating her which usually works. She was not responding to the stimulation so they had to bag her (oxygen). She had to have this done twice and on one of the occasions for a duration of 2 minutes. The resident came in and said he believed she was at the end of a seizure.
They immediately ordered to have another video EEG done. Her feeds were stopped in case they needed to give her a breathing tube, and labs were done of urine, blood, and cultures. They did chest xrays and everything was fine there. They also hooked her up to a nasal cannula which is a tube that slips into her nostrils to keep oxygen flowing in case she stops breathing. Because they stopped the feedings, they had to start her on another IV for her nutrition.
She was alert and happy when I saw her. As soon as she heard my voice she began cooing away to tell me what had happened. I called back around 11pm and she had been very fussy all evening since I left. She was hungry and uncomfortable because she had to be on her back with no clothes, no blankets. She sleeps so much better on her tummy.
So this morning I found out that she had a couple of apnic episodes throughout the night that needed stimulation but no bagging. When the VEEG was done this am I asked if she could be placed on her tummy. As soon as she was placed on her belly she fell asleep.
The doctors came in for rounds and as of right now there are no results from anything. The VEEG results should be back by this afternoon. They are going to keep her off of feeds until tomorrow so that her body can readjust. The surgeons decided that she is not a candidate for a revision of her fundo so for feeding our only other option is to have her gtube advanced which means she will definitely be on continuous feeds through her feeding pump when we go home. The advancement of the gtube could have been done this Wednesday or Thursday but because of the infection they are going to wait until that is resolved.
More waiting games and more questions without answers.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Infection
On Friday we found out that Teryn's gtube site has 2 bacterial infections. She was immediately started on 2 different IV antibiotics. She had just had her central IV line removed wince we didnt think she needed it anymore. So she had to have another one placed in her foot.
We found out today that both bacteria were sensitive to one of the antibiotics so she was able to come off of one of them. The gtube site continues to have a lot of discharge and will need to be cleaned ane monitored frequently.
The surgeon came by today for a consult. We are trying to see which of 2 options is going to be best for feeding purposes. Here are the options"
1) Advance the original gtube to make it a jtube. This will allow us to feed her through her gtube and bypass her stomach therefore reducing reflux. There is no recovery time from this which is a plus. However, the tube can sometimes come out and it is a temporary fix. Also with this option she will have to remain on 24 hour continuous feeds.
2)Have surgery to revise the original fundoplication. On the con side, it is surgery. There is no gaurantee it will work but it would allow us to feed her through her original gtube every 3 hours. These bolus feeds instead of continuous would provide more freedom instead of being stuck to the pump 24 hours a day.
James had to go back home today. So sad to see him leave.
Praying that God will help everyone to make the best decisions for Teryn.
We found out today that both bacteria were sensitive to one of the antibiotics so she was able to come off of one of them. The gtube site continues to have a lot of discharge and will need to be cleaned ane monitored frequently.
The surgeon came by today for a consult. We are trying to see which of 2 options is going to be best for feeding purposes. Here are the options"
1) Advance the original gtube to make it a jtube. This will allow us to feed her through her gtube and bypass her stomach therefore reducing reflux. There is no recovery time from this which is a plus. However, the tube can sometimes come out and it is a temporary fix. Also with this option she will have to remain on 24 hour continuous feeds.
2)Have surgery to revise the original fundoplication. On the con side, it is surgery. There is no gaurantee it will work but it would allow us to feed her through her original gtube every 3 hours. These bolus feeds instead of continuous would provide more freedom instead of being stuck to the pump 24 hours a day.
James had to go back home today. So sad to see him leave.
Praying that God will help everyone to make the best decisions for Teryn.
Daddy's birthday visit
James got to come down for a long weekend to share his birthday with us. We were so excited and happy to see him!
We had special birthday presents waiting for him.
Yay!!! He is here.
Teryn's favorite place to sleep. And...notice the beautiful afghan that Nanny made for her.
Daddy, I missed you so much.
Check out my cute little dress.
What a cute little hiny!
Finally ready for the party. We had to do it a day late since Teryn slept all day on daddy's birthday after she got her vaccinations.
Daddy holding his favorite birthday present.
Daddy bought her a new outfit. "daddy's girl"
Relaxing with daddy before he has to leave. Thanks for coming. We are going to miss you.
We had special birthday presents waiting for him.
Yay!!! He is here.
Teryn's favorite place to sleep. And...notice the beautiful afghan that Nanny made for her.
Daddy, I missed you so much.
Check out my cute little dress.
What a cute little hiny!
Finally ready for the party. We had to do it a day late since Teryn slept all day on daddy's birthday after she got her vaccinations.
Daddy holding his favorite birthday present.
Daddy bought her a new outfit. "daddy's girl"
Relaxing with daddy before he has to leave. Thanks for coming. We are going to miss you.
Photos from MCH
Preparing for the flight to MCH.
In the waiting area for MRI.
Loving her puppy paci.
Ms. Iliana came to visit.
Miami Children's Hospital
We are here at MCH. We have been here for almost 3 weeks now. We have decided that everything takes a little bit longer than expected when you have a baby with special needs. Therefore we have stopped putting time expectations on things like going home. We have had several goal dates that have come and gone and we are still living out of a NICU. Everytime our goal date passes we are so disappointed. We have decided just to take one day at a time and go on the timeline of what Teryn needs.
As soon as we got here things were already in motion to complete the tests that were ordered. After 3 weeks here is what we know:
Cardiovascular: Teryn had a tiny pinhole when she was born. We were told it was fairly common and that it would close on it own. It has!!!!! Resolved.
Neurolgy: An MRI was done. As we know she has hydrocephalus. What we found out about her corpus callosum is that it is dysplatic, or thin. Again there is no way to know if there will be any implications on her development from this. We will continue therapy when she gets home to be sure she has every advantage possible.
Craniofacial/Plastics: Her palate will be scheduled for repair sometime around one year of age. Everyone agrees that her small jaw is very mild and does not need any type of surgical procedure. This is barely noticeable and will grow out over time.
Genetics: A more comprehensive scan off all chromosomes is normal. No abnormalities.
ENT: Teryn will probably need to have tubes placed in her ears in the future since babies with clefts tend to have a lot of fluid build up. It will more than likely be paired with another surgery such as her palate repair in the future.
Gastrointestinal: When Teryn arrived an ND tube (tube from her nose into the duodenum - bypassing her stomach) was placed for feedings. She is currently on full feeds for her weight. She is handling feeds this way fairly well. Meds for reflux were changed - maybe it will make a difference. A possible modification will be made to her gtube.
Apnea: This has been mostly better lately. Any desats she has had recently have not needed stimulation. She has been correcting it on her own.
Opthamology: She had another eye exam here. There was concern because her left eye tend to turn in occasionally. Everything looks good right now and she will have a follow up in several months. Structurally everything is great.
Audiology: Teryn passed her hearing test in both ears with flying colors.
This is just the brief summary. I will continue to update along the way.
As soon as we got here things were already in motion to complete the tests that were ordered. After 3 weeks here is what we know:
Cardiovascular: Teryn had a tiny pinhole when she was born. We were told it was fairly common and that it would close on it own. It has!!!!! Resolved.
Neurolgy: An MRI was done. As we know she has hydrocephalus. What we found out about her corpus callosum is that it is dysplatic, or thin. Again there is no way to know if there will be any implications on her development from this. We will continue therapy when she gets home to be sure she has every advantage possible.
Craniofacial/Plastics: Her palate will be scheduled for repair sometime around one year of age. Everyone agrees that her small jaw is very mild and does not need any type of surgical procedure. This is barely noticeable and will grow out over time.
Genetics: A more comprehensive scan off all chromosomes is normal. No abnormalities.
ENT: Teryn will probably need to have tubes placed in her ears in the future since babies with clefts tend to have a lot of fluid build up. It will more than likely be paired with another surgery such as her palate repair in the future.
Gastrointestinal: When Teryn arrived an ND tube (tube from her nose into the duodenum - bypassing her stomach) was placed for feedings. She is currently on full feeds for her weight. She is handling feeds this way fairly well. Meds for reflux were changed - maybe it will make a difference. A possible modification will be made to her gtube.
Apnea: This has been mostly better lately. Any desats she has had recently have not needed stimulation. She has been correcting it on her own.
Opthamology: She had another eye exam here. There was concern because her left eye tend to turn in occasionally. Everything looks good right now and she will have a follow up in several months. Structurally everything is great.
Audiology: Teryn passed her hearing test in both ears with flying colors.
This is just the brief summary. I will continue to update along the way.
Photos from Gulf Coast
Nightly bath and weighging time.
Fianlly got a big girl bed. Watching everyone walk by.
Back home to Gulf Coast
Through a miracle of a loophole Shands was able to insurance to pay for Teryn to be transported back to our home hospital. We were thinking we were really close to going home. We got home the day after she did. When we arrived at the hospital we found out that she did not handle the transport well and was having a lot of desats and apnic episodes.
We were so happy to be back around our family and friends and of course our furbaby Xavier. We could finally allow a few others to come in and meet Teryn. It was so great to finally be able to show her off.
There was concern about her breathing and there was some suspicion about possible reflux. Once the symptoms were explained to me I began to see evidence right away. An upper GI study was done to see how sever the reflux was. The results showed that the reflux was pretty severe. Because of this she was scheduled for surgery to have a Nissen Fundoplication done. In this procedure part of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus to tighten the sphincter in order to prevent the reflux. Because of Teryn's inability to swallow it was decided to go ahead and have a gtube placed for feeding. This is a tube that is inserted in the side of her abdomen and provides a direct track for the food into her stomach.
We had gotten to know some of the nurses at GC. They became our hospital family and the NICU was our other home. On the day of Teryn's scheduled surgery our special nurse friend, Mel, was assigned to Teryn. I felt a little better knowing that she would be with her. She made sure she had an arsenal of things to keep Teryn comfortable during the procedure. Mel called us periodically to let us know how things were going. When the procedure was complete the surgeon came in and told us that everything went great. He said the gtube was a little trickier than he anticipated but that it would be monitored over the next several days.
We waited and waited for them to come out and tell us that she was settled back in for recovery and we could come and see her. After almost an hour Mel came out and told us that they suspected she may have had a seizure as she was coming out of the anesthesia. She had been given a dose of anti-seizure meds and would be having a head ultrasound.
The head ultrasound results showed that she has hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain) and that there was something abnormal about her corpus callosum. The neurologist said there was no way to know if this would have any future implications for her but that she would be set up to begin receiving a series of therapies as soon as she was discharged. This would help to counteract any possible delays. Monitoring of the fluid was done to be sure the pressure was not changing. the results continued to remain the same so there was not going to be a need for a shunt.
Teryn remained NPO (no food) for a little over a week due to the uncertainty about her gtube. She was eventually put back on feeds at a very low rate that would slowly increase. Then I received a surprise. My mom and I were holding Teryn and she was very fussy. We decided maybe it was her diaper. I layed her on the table and remove her blanket. When I did I saw that her gtube had come out. A little bit of panic ensued and we were asked to step out for a few minutes. The tube was put back in and the surgeon was called to come and look.
The surgeon decided that it would be best to go in and revise some things but this time it would have to be done through an incision instead of laproscopically. Thankfully another wonderful nurse was with her that day. Kathy prepared her and assured us she would keep us updated. Teryn handled everything well. She was allowed to begin feeds a couple days later and was doing well at first until she began refluxing again. This time with visible milk coming out of her nose and mouth. We tried increasing the volume at a slower rate and even going on to continuous feeds. She was still refluxing which was making her apnea worse and just making her hurt in general.
Things were looking better for a while and discussion and preparation began for us to be discharged to go home. That week the regular neonatologist was on vacation and there was a doctor from Miami filling in. That week Teryn continued to have more trouble feeding from the gtube and her apnea was increasing. He mentioned being transferred to Miami and we immediately shot him down and said now way. I mean, we had just been told we were about to go home. I began really thinking about it and watching my little girl struggle just to be able to eat. I began doing research. More importantly, I spoke to several of the staff that I developed a relationship with and whose opinions I regarded highly. Each one of them led me in the direction of Miami Children's Hospital. James and I discussed and prayed and finally said we agreed it would be best for her to go and be evaluated by experts in every area who specialize in children.
I have to tell you that in the 5 weeks we were at Gulf Coast we received amazing care. Our decision to leave had nothing to do with lack of care. Our little town and little hospital are simply limited in resources. However, we received excellent nursing and therapy care from an amazing group of people who truly loved our little girl. We are still in contact with them and we are so grateful for everything they did for us while we were there.
We were so happy to be back around our family and friends and of course our furbaby Xavier. We could finally allow a few others to come in and meet Teryn. It was so great to finally be able to show her off.
There was concern about her breathing and there was some suspicion about possible reflux. Once the symptoms were explained to me I began to see evidence right away. An upper GI study was done to see how sever the reflux was. The results showed that the reflux was pretty severe. Because of this she was scheduled for surgery to have a Nissen Fundoplication done. In this procedure part of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus to tighten the sphincter in order to prevent the reflux. Because of Teryn's inability to swallow it was decided to go ahead and have a gtube placed for feeding. This is a tube that is inserted in the side of her abdomen and provides a direct track for the food into her stomach.
We had gotten to know some of the nurses at GC. They became our hospital family and the NICU was our other home. On the day of Teryn's scheduled surgery our special nurse friend, Mel, was assigned to Teryn. I felt a little better knowing that she would be with her. She made sure she had an arsenal of things to keep Teryn comfortable during the procedure. Mel called us periodically to let us know how things were going. When the procedure was complete the surgeon came in and told us that everything went great. He said the gtube was a little trickier than he anticipated but that it would be monitored over the next several days.
We waited and waited for them to come out and tell us that she was settled back in for recovery and we could come and see her. After almost an hour Mel came out and told us that they suspected she may have had a seizure as she was coming out of the anesthesia. She had been given a dose of anti-seizure meds and would be having a head ultrasound.
The head ultrasound results showed that she has hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain) and that there was something abnormal about her corpus callosum. The neurologist said there was no way to know if this would have any future implications for her but that she would be set up to begin receiving a series of therapies as soon as she was discharged. This would help to counteract any possible delays. Monitoring of the fluid was done to be sure the pressure was not changing. the results continued to remain the same so there was not going to be a need for a shunt.
Teryn remained NPO (no food) for a little over a week due to the uncertainty about her gtube. She was eventually put back on feeds at a very low rate that would slowly increase. Then I received a surprise. My mom and I were holding Teryn and she was very fussy. We decided maybe it was her diaper. I layed her on the table and remove her blanket. When I did I saw that her gtube had come out. A little bit of panic ensued and we were asked to step out for a few minutes. The tube was put back in and the surgeon was called to come and look.
The surgeon decided that it would be best to go in and revise some things but this time it would have to be done through an incision instead of laproscopically. Thankfully another wonderful nurse was with her that day. Kathy prepared her and assured us she would keep us updated. Teryn handled everything well. She was allowed to begin feeds a couple days later and was doing well at first until she began refluxing again. This time with visible milk coming out of her nose and mouth. We tried increasing the volume at a slower rate and even going on to continuous feeds. She was still refluxing which was making her apnea worse and just making her hurt in general.
Things were looking better for a while and discussion and preparation began for us to be discharged to go home. That week the regular neonatologist was on vacation and there was a doctor from Miami filling in. That week Teryn continued to have more trouble feeding from the gtube and her apnea was increasing. He mentioned being transferred to Miami and we immediately shot him down and said now way. I mean, we had just been told we were about to go home. I began really thinking about it and watching my little girl struggle just to be able to eat. I began doing research. More importantly, I spoke to several of the staff that I developed a relationship with and whose opinions I regarded highly. Each one of them led me in the direction of Miami Children's Hospital. James and I discussed and prayed and finally said we agreed it would be best for her to go and be evaluated by experts in every area who specialize in children.
I have to tell you that in the 5 weeks we were at Gulf Coast we received amazing care. Our decision to leave had nothing to do with lack of care. Our little town and little hospital are simply limited in resources. However, we received excellent nursing and therapy care from an amazing group of people who truly loved our little girl. We are still in contact with them and we are so grateful for everything they did for us while we were there.
Shands
Teryn spent a total of 10 days at Shands hospital. She underwent a series of evaluations. We learned that she has difficulty swallowing which was going to be a challenge with her feedings. She was being fed through a tube in her nose. During our time there we worked with a therapist who showed us that we would eventually be able to feed her through a special bottle made for babies with clefts. Teryn was able to get a couple mls of milk through the bottle with the help of the therapist.
She spent all of her time on her tummy because that was the best way to keep her breathing. This allowed her tongue to stay forward. On her back her tongue can fall back and oclcude her airway. We learned very quickly how to read the monitors and how to "read" Teryn to see when she was having trouble with her breathing. It was always apparent because her lips will change color. We learned how to change diapers in lightning speed time. She would sometimes stop breathing during the diaper change and we would have to position her on her side for a minute before we could resume. She would almost always go apnic (stop breathing) when she was on her back. We also learned that oxygen saturation was going to be very important to going home. We were watching that number all the time. Ideally her saturation should be in the high 90's. When her breathing was compromised, she would desat meaning that her saturation of oxygen was less than optimal. These desats would sound off an alarm and she needed stimulation and/or repositiong to regain her breathing.
After several days she was stable enough to be moved from the level III NICU to the level II. However, there were no available beds so she had to stay put. She was evaluated by ENT who said her airway was fine except for when her tongue occludes it. They did not believe she would be a candidate for a trach. genetic testing was completed to determine if there was an abnormality with a specific chromosome that sometimes happens with PRS babies. Everythign came back normal.
After a few more days they believed she was stable enough and worked it out through insurance to have her transported back to the NICU near home so we could be closer and not have the stress of being away from family, friends, and other familiarites. We were thrilled to be heading back to Panama City and thought we would only be in the hospital for maybe another week.
Teryn's cheek was blistered from the tape used on her ventilator during transport. Poor baby.
Lots of IVs and other probes.
Sleepless Night - Pierre Robin
Our next visit was from the neonatologist. She came in to explain that upon evaluation it was determined that Teryn has Pierre Robin Sequence.
http://www.cleftline.org/publications/pierre_robin
WHAT? Just like most people, we had never heard of this before. I only heard snippits of what the doctor was saying....cleft palate...small jaw...trouble breathing...being intubated. But the next thing I heard was far too clear, "We are limited on what our hospital can do for her. She is going to be life-flighted to Shands in the morning so she can be evaluated by specialists." They were going to come and get me a couple of hours before her departure so I could spend time with her, until then try and get some sleep. Only half an hour later the doctor was back in our room telling us they were having trouble keeping Teryn's breathing stable so Shands was on their way now and would be there within the hour. We got permission for me to be taken down in a wheelchair so I coul
d see her. 
When I saw my little girl she was lying under a heat lamp wearing nothing but a diaper and had a breathing tube. Where were the cute outfits I had spent hours picking out? This was nowhere near the way I had expected our first night together to be. James and I sat on either side of her bed holding her hands. We didn't really say anything, just sat and waited. Our little angel Michelle was busy on the computer getting as much information as possible for us about Pierre Robin and printing out the pictures she had taken of Teryn for us. We are so greatful for the compassion she showed us that night. Those pictures would be the way we introduced our daughter to our family and friends for the first time.
http://www.cleftline.org/publications/pierre_robin
WHAT? Just like most people, we had never heard of this before. I only heard snippits of what the doctor was saying....cleft palate...small jaw...trouble breathing...being intubated. But the next thing I heard was far too clear, "We are limited on what our hospital can do for her. She is going to be life-flighted to Shands in the morning so she can be evaluated by specialists." They were going to come and get me a couple of hours before her departure so I could spend time with her, until then try and get some sleep. Only half an hour later the doctor was back in our room telling us they were having trouble keeping Teryn's breathing stable so Shands was on their way now and would be there within the hour. We got permission for me to be taken down in a wheelchair so I coul
d see her. 
When I saw my little girl she was lying under a heat lamp wearing nothing but a diaper and had a breathing tube. Where were the cute outfits I had spent hours picking out? This was nowhere near the way I had expected our first night together to be. James and I sat on either side of her bed holding her hands. We didn't really say anything, just sat and waited. Our little angel Michelle was busy on the computer getting as much information as possible for us about Pierre Robin and printing out the pictures she had taken of Teryn for us. We are so greatful for the compassion she showed us that night. Those pictures would be the way we introduced our daughter to our family and friends for the first time.
The nurses told us the transport team was arriving so we needed to return to our room. As they were leaving they wheeled Teryn in to say goodnight. She was in a clear plastic box that looked like a flight control panel itself. We told her goodnight and that we would see her soon,
The next couple of days we had a huge outpouring of love from family and friends, each one having done their own research on PRS before they arrived. At one point we had twenty people in that tiny hospital room. The nurses were nice enough to just let it happen as everyone had a slice of Teryn's birthday cake. We showed off the pictures of our little girl to everyone who walked in the door. The commotion kept my mind off of the physical and emotional pain at least for a little while. Until the room was empty, then I would let myself feel the true emotions and keep asking God why and was he really there.
Teryn had arrived at Shands and we were calling a few times a day to see how she was doing. I had to stay in the hospital a day longer due to a complication. As soon as I was discharged we went home and began packing to go and see our little girl.
The next couple of days we had a huge outpouring of love from family and friends, each one having done their own research on PRS before they arrived. At one point we had twenty people in that tiny hospital room. The nurses were nice enough to just let it happen as everyone had a slice of Teryn's birthday cake. We showed off the pictures of our little girl to everyone who walked in the door. The commotion kept my mind off of the physical and emotional pain at least for a little while. Until the room was empty, then I would let myself feel the true emotions and keep asking God why and was he really there.
Teryn had arrived at Shands and we were calling a few times a day to see how she was doing. I had to stay in the hospital a day longer due to a complication. As soon as I was discharged we went home and began packing to go and see our little girl.
***I recently added the pictures to this post. I kept them hidden inside my phone for so long. Initially it hurt too much to see them. I am past that and know that we have one amazingly strong little girl.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
After delivery
As I struggled to regain my awareness, I noticed that James was no longer at my side. I thought maybe he had passed out and was being nursed somewhere else. In reality he was in the nursery with our beautiful Teryn Adleigh.
They had tried to show her to me in the operating room but I was in LaLa Land. I was wheeled in to the recovery room where I would have to spend an hour for observation before I was able to see my daughter for the first time. James came in to see me and tell me how beautiful Teryn is. A nurse I did not know came in and introduced herself and asked me a question. To this day I cannot remember what she asked me. All I remember thinking was 'why is a NICU nurse here and why is she asking me this?' I looked at James and he said, "I didn't want to tell you yet." Tell me WHAT? Apparently as the nurses were cleaning Teryn up she turned blue and stopped breathing. She was immediately sent to the NICU. This nurse Mechelle (who turns out to be one of our angels) was explaining to me that Teryn was having trouble breathing and she would keep us updated on how things were going. She came in again a few minutes later to tell us that they discoverd Teryn has a cleft palate. The only knowledge I knew of clefts was on the lip. I was thinking how this must be a mistake because everyhting was fine in the ultrasounds. I learned that Teryn's cleft is in the roof of her mouth.
I was fianally transferred to my room but still had not seen my daughter. My nurse and Michelle made arrangements for me to be wheeled past the NICU. Once I got there, Michelle came out with Teryn and she was placed in my arms for about 45 seconds before they had to take her back. It was only enough time for them to take a quick snapshot that would be our first family photo. However, when she was placed on my chest she immediately turned in response to my voice and looked at me with the most mazing recognition. She knew I was her mommy and that felt so good. At the same time I knew that my world was being turned upside down in a way I never planned or expected. Teryn had to be immediately taken back in and as soon as she was lifted off my chest she began screaming. It was certainly a mutual feeling as I wanted to do the exact same thing. I had it all planned perfectly and made sure hospital staff had known my birthing plan...after delivery I had wanted to hold her and nurse her as James and I spent our first moments with her alone to bond as a family. That was now an impossibilty.
As I reached my room our families were there with opposite expressions than I had seen just hours before. It was very late and they left us to rest. I was so drugged and more sleepy than I have ever been. Even so, I could not sleep a wink.
They had tried to show her to me in the operating room but I was in LaLa Land. I was wheeled in to the recovery room where I would have to spend an hour for observation before I was able to see my daughter for the first time. James came in to see me and tell me how beautiful Teryn is. A nurse I did not know came in and introduced herself and asked me a question. To this day I cannot remember what she asked me. All I remember thinking was 'why is a NICU nurse here and why is she asking me this?' I looked at James and he said, "I didn't want to tell you yet." Tell me WHAT? Apparently as the nurses were cleaning Teryn up she turned blue and stopped breathing. She was immediately sent to the NICU. This nurse Mechelle (who turns out to be one of our angels) was explaining to me that Teryn was having trouble breathing and she would keep us updated on how things were going. She came in again a few minutes later to tell us that they discoverd Teryn has a cleft palate. The only knowledge I knew of clefts was on the lip. I was thinking how this must be a mistake because everyhting was fine in the ultrasounds. I learned that Teryn's cleft is in the roof of her mouth.
I was fianally transferred to my room but still had not seen my daughter. My nurse and Michelle made arrangements for me to be wheeled past the NICU. Once I got there, Michelle came out with Teryn and she was placed in my arms for about 45 seconds before they had to take her back. It was only enough time for them to take a quick snapshot that would be our first family photo. However, when she was placed on my chest she immediately turned in response to my voice and looked at me with the most mazing recognition. She knew I was her mommy and that felt so good. At the same time I knew that my world was being turned upside down in a way I never planned or expected. Teryn had to be immediately taken back in and as soon as she was lifted off my chest she began screaming. It was certainly a mutual feeling as I wanted to do the exact same thing. I had it all planned perfectly and made sure hospital staff had known my birthing plan...after delivery I had wanted to hold her and nurse her as James and I spent our first moments with her alone to bond as a family. That was now an impossibilty.
As I reached my room our families were there with opposite expressions than I had seen just hours before. It was very late and they left us to rest. I was so drugged and more sleepy than I have ever been. Even so, I could not sleep a wink.
Delivery
James and I checked into the hospital the night before my scheduled induction. I was given a dose of cervadil to get the process in motion. The following morning I was given pitocin to get contractions going. My water was broken while the surgery team waited out in the hall "just in case." I was given an epidural and by 8:30 am labor was in full swing. However, it was very slow. There was a lot of pain and waiting. The epidural had to be given a supercharge several times as it was wearing off and I was feeling a lot of pain. The baby was facing up and the doctor tried to manually turn her several times. When you are in the hospital they are constantly asking you to rate your pain on a scale of 1 to 10. Let's just say I fianally had a reference point for 10 after the first attempt to turn the baby. Much later this was attempted again with no luck and my labor was no longer progressing. This and the fact that mine and baby's vitals were no longer favorable, it was decided to do an emergency cesarean section.
I was very emotional and upset since this is not how I had wanted this to happen. Once in the operating room I realized that I was still able to feel way too much in spite of the epidural. I told the anesthesiologist. he checked to make sure my addomen was numb. It was so we both assumed I was good to go. James was sitting on my left side. I was initally trying to keep him calm instead of the other way around. On my right was my "other" mother Natalie. She is an RN is the surgical department so she was allowed to be in with me, thank goodness. That made all the difference in the world for my shot nerves.
As soon as they began to take the baby out I realized I was feeling way more than I was supposed to. Natalie saw the pain I was in and told the anesthesiologist. He immedialtely gave me a shot in my IV without me knowing. Whatever it was basically sent me in to a drug-induced coma for a few minutes so I wouldn't feel the pain. Right before I went under I could hear the commotion....."Here she comes.....ten fingers ten toes...she's beautiful...8:34 pm...7 pounds 4 ounces." I heard a faint cry from my little girl and then I was out of consciousness.
I was very emotional and upset since this is not how I had wanted this to happen. Once in the operating room I realized that I was still able to feel way too much in spite of the epidural. I told the anesthesiologist. he checked to make sure my addomen was numb. It was so we both assumed I was good to go. James was sitting on my left side. I was initally trying to keep him calm instead of the other way around. On my right was my "other" mother Natalie. She is an RN is the surgical department so she was allowed to be in with me, thank goodness. That made all the difference in the world for my shot nerves.
As soon as they began to take the baby out I realized I was feeling way more than I was supposed to. Natalie saw the pain I was in and told the anesthesiologist. He immedialtely gave me a shot in my IV without me knowing. Whatever it was basically sent me in to a drug-induced coma for a few minutes so I wouldn't feel the pain. Right before I went under I could hear the commotion....."Here she comes.....ten fingers ten toes...she's beautiful...8:34 pm...7 pounds 4 ounces." I heard a faint cry from my little girl and then I was out of consciousness.
The beginning of our story-Pregnancy
In the summer of 2009 James and I were ecstatic to find out that we were going to be starting our family. 
My pregnancy was very typical and uneventful until around the 30 week mark when an ultrasound showed that I had twice as much amniotic fluid as I should have had.
I was told that in 60% of the cases of polyhdramnios the cause is unknown. Other reasons could be multiple fetuses, gestational diabetes, or an infant with breathing/swallowing problems. Everything in my ultraounds was normal excpet for the fluid so we assumed we were part of the 60%. As I got closer to my due date the extra fluid made it difficult to do anything including walking or even sitting or laying. I decided it was time to begin my maternity leave. At my 37 week appointment the fluid was continuing to increase so the doctor ordered biweekly appointments for ultrasounds and stress tests. The stress tests never happened. Several nurses tried diligently to get the probes hooked on my belly but everytime they would apply pressure the baby would move away. The ultrasounds continued to be normal. They weren't able to get clear brain pictures in the end because of the extra amniotic fluid and the large knots that had formed on my lower belly.
The doctor stressed that we would probably need to do an induction because of the very risky situation we would be in if my water broke on its own. This could possibly cause the cord to prolapse putting the baby in serious danger. He didn't want to induce prior to 39 weeks just in case the baby was havng any /swallowing issues we wanted her to have as much development as possible. Babies swallow amniotic fluid in the womb and if she was having trouble this would explain the extra fluid. Based on all known facts my induction was scheduled for February 16th.
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