Junior had an allergist appointment today. We have never seen this "Doctor" before. They mailed me the new patient packet, which I got earlier in the week and filled out as completely as I could. (To the point of explaining a few things on the questionaire).
We arrived early. About 20 minutes early. I wasn't asked for my insurance card when we signed in, I just handed the nurse my packet signed the sign in sheet and sat down with my mother in law to attempt to entertain Junior for what I thought would be about twenty minutes till our appointment. A full forty minutes later, we were told it would be just a few more minutes (and that was only because I asked.). Yes, you read that right - 40 minutes after we arrived we were seen. Actually it was more like 45. Either way by then I was mad, Jr was ready to do something else and Grammie was running out of ideas to entertain him. Not once were we addressed in the waiting room - which was tiny and PACKED. Most where there to get their allergy shots and where more or less in & out fairly quickly.
Once we gotten taken back to the exam room there was ANOTHER patient in the room waiting for his shot. The nurse told him to STAND BEHIND THE DOOR, and she would give him his shot, and told us to sit down in the chair. I thought "Okay, maybe there was a little bit of a miscommunication here, they will get it sorted out and we can get on with our time with the Dr." I should have known that something was wrong. They funneled in, one after another (with the nurse) during our ENTIRE visit! Easily there where atleast 6-10 other patients that got shots IN THE SAME EXAM ROOM as us. DURING our visit! And to top it off, the Dr seemed to write off any of the things I was telling him about Jr. He wants Jr to go on a decongestant for the congestion he has (something I've been saying to our family practice Dr for a while which I will go back to him and pass on), but he wants him to that in place of the zyrtec we are currently on in addition to that he wants us to use Nasonex on Jr twice a day for the next two days and everyday after that to see if it helps the congestion. IF Jr's sinuses are like mine, he may not actually be allergic to anything - he just has overactive sinuses who literally over react to everything like mine and would need to take something different that Nasonex (it doesn't work for me.)
Either way, this visit felt like a waste of an afternoon. I did not feel that the Dr valued anything I had to say let alone put his full attention on my son and what we are concerned about. Not to mention the constant distraction of having other patients in the room. I could be wrong, but I would think that discussing symptoms, family history etc with other patients in hearing range (i.e. door not being shut) is a HIPA violation.
So my plan of action is this: I am calling the insurance company tomorrow to get names of OTHER pediatric allergists (Grammie thinks I should wait till I get back to TX so any tests don't have to be repeated) here in our area and seeing which one would work best for us. I may be willing to walk away from a Doctor appointment feeling a little unsettled about a visit like this one if it were about me, but I'm sorry my son deserves better. And quite frankly I'm not going to tolerate it. (And in the future will probably not tolerate it when it comes to myself either!)
Showing posts with label doctors. Show all posts
Showing posts with label doctors. Show all posts
July 02, 2009
March 25, 2009
Ear Infection Update
Jr had a follow up for the ear infection (ala Florida) today. Man my chunko-munko is getting big! They didn't check his height but his weight is up to 21lbs 10.6oz! So I guess lets just call that one as it is: 22lbs! Dr K was very excited to see him (he's more or less a friend of the family at this point, so we get a little more attention according to my mom). His ear is good, and the rash on his face that his Grandma J was worried about is normal and teething related. Jokingly Dr K mentioned that Jr maybe a little ADHD due to the fact he's CONSTANTLY moving and checking things out. While I was a little surprised by that, he said that it's normal and he's just going to be a kid who requires LOTS of stimulation. (Something I already knew - he doesn't do sitting quietly for very long.) Other than that he's doing good and Dr. K thinks he'll be walking in the next month or so.
The walking assumption was because he proved to Dr. K in the office that he (Jr) has no real intrest in A) staying in one spot and B) he pulled himself into a standing postion more then once in front of the Dr. Jr will also do the normal baby steps if you hold his hands, although unlike some babies at this age it's not because your leaning him forward. ;)
I also asked about if I should consult with a OB/GYN before trying for #2. Yes you read that right - it is seriously being considered. IF we were to concieve during Chris' time at home in July, Jr and Baby#2 would be approx 19 mos apart. So we'll see. Chris is all for it - I'm still on the fence but am willing to see what another Dr thinks about the situation. I do know that after #2 that's it. I'm done! LOL, famous last words I know!
Well I'm off to get my hair done - my mom is going to color it and Junior is currently sleeping on her bed which is ticking of Fat Cat (aka my mom's cat Deva) who prefers to have the bed to herself!!!
The walking assumption was because he proved to Dr. K in the office that he (Jr) has no real intrest in A) staying in one spot and B) he pulled himself into a standing postion more then once in front of the Dr. Jr will also do the normal baby steps if you hold his hands, although unlike some babies at this age it's not because your leaning him forward. ;)
I also asked about if I should consult with a OB/GYN before trying for #2. Yes you read that right - it is seriously being considered. IF we were to concieve during Chris' time at home in July, Jr and Baby#2 would be approx 19 mos apart. So we'll see. Chris is all for it - I'm still on the fence but am willing to see what another Dr thinks about the situation. I do know that after #2 that's it. I'm done! LOL, famous last words I know!
Well I'm off to get my hair done - my mom is going to color it and Junior is currently sleeping on her bed which is ticking of Fat Cat (aka my mom's cat Deva) who prefers to have the bed to herself!!!
February 06, 2009
6 1/2 Months old!
So due to the screw up back in Texas with Junior's shots, we just had Junior's six month appointment this week.
His Stats:
Height: 26 10/2inches long
Weight: 19lbs 1.4oz long
Head Circ: 17 in
Dr. K had seen Jr about a month ago - for a rattle in his lungs I heard. I was assured that it was congestion due to teething. At that point Dr. K called Junior a Moose... with out any prompting! This week when we where in the office he was just amazed with him. He says that Junior not only looks like a nine month old - but ACTS like one! He is incredibly socially aware (something Dr. K said is a really good thing especially at this age) and follows everyone around the room not just me. His weight gain is good considering he's been on solids since he was three months old, and Dr. K said if he wants it, and it is not a choking hazard (obviously) to go ahead and let him have it. (so far he's had - outside of baby food- lasagna that went through a blender, a big strip of chicken that he's knawed the heck out of, breadsticks at Olive Garden and Round Table Pizza as well as pizza crust from the latter). Over all we have a perfect baby (ha ha ha!)! He also said that Junior's top two teeth are very close to popping through and any day we should start feeling them poking through. (He already has his 2 bottom teeth - they came in with in a week/ week & a half of each other).
Grandma J has given Junior a new nickname... "Mr. Pissy Pants" (edited for web content lol) and if you had lived with him this week - you would have agreed!
Junior is all caught up on his shots and no reactions thus far! (Thank goodness!) And unfortunately it didn't make him sleep any better! :( Although yesterday (the day after) he took two good long naps in the car while Grandma J and I where running errands, which included a trip to the mall.
OH YES, for you members of Sam's club.... do not give a teething baby a churro from here... lol he fell asleep in his carseat on the way home sucking on it! It was incredibly too cute and unfortunately because I was driving I didn't get a picture of it (and no he was not in danger of choking - as soon as he fell asleep, Grandma J took it away).
His Stats:
Height: 26 10/2inches long
Weight: 19lbs 1.4oz long
Head Circ: 17 in
Dr. K had seen Jr about a month ago - for a rattle in his lungs I heard. I was assured that it was congestion due to teething. At that point Dr. K called Junior a Moose... with out any prompting! This week when we where in the office he was just amazed with him. He says that Junior not only looks like a nine month old - but ACTS like one! He is incredibly socially aware (something Dr. K said is a really good thing especially at this age) and follows everyone around the room not just me. His weight gain is good considering he's been on solids since he was three months old, and Dr. K said if he wants it, and it is not a choking hazard (obviously) to go ahead and let him have it. (so far he's had - outside of baby food- lasagna that went through a blender, a big strip of chicken that he's knawed the heck out of, breadsticks at Olive Garden and Round Table Pizza as well as pizza crust from the latter). Over all we have a perfect baby (ha ha ha!)! He also said that Junior's top two teeth are very close to popping through and any day we should start feeling them poking through. (He already has his 2 bottom teeth - they came in with in a week/ week & a half of each other).
Grandma J has given Junior a new nickname... "Mr. Pissy Pants" (edited for web content lol) and if you had lived with him this week - you would have agreed!
Junior is all caught up on his shots and no reactions thus far! (Thank goodness!) And unfortunately it didn't make him sleep any better! :( Although yesterday (the day after) he took two good long naps in the car while Grandma J and I where running errands, which included a trip to the mall.
OH YES, for you members of Sam's club.... do not give a teething baby a churro from here... lol he fell asleep in his carseat on the way home sucking on it! It was incredibly too cute and unfortunately because I was driving I didn't get a picture of it (and no he was not in danger of choking - as soon as he fell asleep, Grandma J took it away).
November 05, 2008
Sigh of Relief
Yesterday was a very stressful day for Chris and I. Unsure about what the Orthopedic Surgeon (OS) would say about his back, and knowing this could impact Chris' plans career wise and my immediate plans for the next 8 months we were a little on edge yesterday.
Chris does have a herniated disc. It's not causing him pain right now, and the OS said it was very minor at this point (as we could see from the MRI scan). He did not see why Chris could not stay in an "up" status for now, and treat the pain as needed. He even perscribed a non-narcodic pain reliever that was extended release, that he assured us would allow Chris to fly with.
Now he just has to go back to the Flight Surgeon here on the base and fill her in as to what the OS said. So basically - he still has physical therapy but other than that - he should be good to go and the only major decision he should have at this point is if he wants to get an easy set of shore duty orders that will allow him to finish his degree (which means a possible move to FL) OR he takes a set of shore duty orders that allow us to stay closer to home for 3 years (recruiting duty - which means Junior and I will be home - and so will he although working 12-14 hour days).
Chris does have a herniated disc. It's not causing him pain right now, and the OS said it was very minor at this point (as we could see from the MRI scan). He did not see why Chris could not stay in an "up" status for now, and treat the pain as needed. He even perscribed a non-narcodic pain reliever that was extended release, that he assured us would allow Chris to fly with.
Now he just has to go back to the Flight Surgeon here on the base and fill her in as to what the OS said. So basically - he still has physical therapy but other than that - he should be good to go and the only major decision he should have at this point is if he wants to get an easy set of shore duty orders that will allow him to finish his degree (which means a possible move to FL) OR he takes a set of shore duty orders that allow us to stay closer to home for 3 years (recruiting duty - which means Junior and I will be home - and so will he although working 12-14 hour days).
October 19, 2008
Moose Sighting & 3 Months old!
Our little "Moose" went back to the doctor this week - we had stopped giving him his medication (more due to lack of remembering on mom's part- yes I'm horrible I know) for Reflux well it is suddenly back with a vengence (as in he's been off the medication for about a month and did fine very little spit up and all of a sudden it was copious amounts). Zantac is a medication that is all related to weight for it to work - so the visit was mostly to weigh him to be able to give me the accurate dosage.
Weight: 15lbs 5 1/2 oz (holy smokes!!)
Height: 24 1/4 inches (a total of 3 1/4 inches since birth!!)
That's right! Only about a pound and a half to go till Jr has DOUBLED his birthweight! He's still very proportionate for his height - which is good and Dr M (the ped we saw when he was a month old) is very happy with his weight gain over all.
When we talked about upping his zantac and re-starting it, I asked when would be the best time to start him on cereal. (This can also help with getting reflux under control). Dr M asked a bunch of questions about allergies and since I have 2 (they are weird I know, Oranges & Turkey) she said that IF we start cereal it's rice only for the next month or so and to take solids VERY slowly. Then she started asking questions about his appetite, how often he eats (still every 2 hours) and how he is between feedings. I also mentioned that one of the other peds in the clinic (Dr. G) said she wanted him to be going every 3-4 hours by now but I didn't understand how to do that since he's breastfeeding (#1) and he eats on demand (#2). She thought that starting cereal sounded like a better option then putting him back on the Zantac for a couple reasons. He's a big baby w/ a very good appetite (she predicted we would be in this position by now when he was a month old) and since rice cereal is known to help reduce the amount and number of reflux incidents she feels that as long as we take it slowly this will work for him. (SO this is by no means what the AAP recommends, it's just what she thinks will work best for MY son with out continuing to give him medication).
We are starting the cereal this weekend, so that Dad can witness this first lol. Each feeding has to be a short one because Jr still does not have complete control over his head and sometimes still does the chin to chest thing (which if we tried to feed him for longer then he can hold his head up it would not go well - and puts him in danger of choking something I simply will NOT do).
As for tummy time - he STILL hates it. Does not matter what I do; I've laid on the floor next to him on my belly, I have put toys around him that he can see and are just out of reach, borrowed a Baby Einstein play mat that has a toy that makes noise and lights up, he is having none of it. Although I am noticing that sometimes when I go in to his room at night because he sounds like he's waking up, I've watched his little legs and bottom rock from side to side, like he's about to roll over - so maybe there's hope yet! He may just learn to roll over from his back to his tummy first!
Also...
Our little guy turned 3 months old last week! He was lucky enough to do it with his Great Grandparents!
October 06, 2008
Tuesday Toot!!
In a momentary about to blame Lizze for being a copy cat here I am pointing the finger at me and stealing this from her.. who "stole" it from another blog lol.
So this isn't really something I did on Tuesday... but I felt it warranted a "Toot"... I finally got back to the gym today (monday)!!! Granted it took the physical therapist telling me my pregnancy totally took any muscle that I had in my lower back and abs and destroyed them and I needed to start working out on specific areas to fix my back problems, but hey, I didn't put it off till tomorrow. I went TODAY! :D (And props to Jess for going with me!!!)
October 03, 2008
Shots....
They SUCK!
Jr got his first shot today. I thought that because he had so many heel sticks in the beginning because of his jaundice that this wouldn't be as bad. No dice. I've put it off or for one reason or another it didn't get taken care of till today.
Tuesday the Immunization Clinic here at the base was closed by the time we got out of his appointment. Wednsday when we went up there, there was a whole mess of flight students and they said the wait would be over an hour and a half long. Yesterday by the time I got up there (at 345pm) the sign said they close at 1230 on Thursdays. So Jess and I went today. (Trace got shots too)
Jr was supposed to get 3 shots and 1 oral vaccine. I elected to do only one today and do the rest next week. The one we did today was the combo shot that has like 4 vaccines in it. It looked huge to me! The Immunization clinic and the Pediatrics clinic both gave me grief about deciding to do only one today (mainly due to the fact if he has a reaction I want to know to which one, and because that one shot has so many different things in it, I don't want to over load him all in one day) . Personally, it's my child so they can just KMA! (if you don't know the abbreviation I'm sorry lol)
He's doing fine now, asleep after his second dose of tylenol. Granted I'll take the vaccinations over him getting any of the illnesses or diseases they protect against, but having to put my child through that SUCKS!!
Jr got his first shot today. I thought that because he had so many heel sticks in the beginning because of his jaundice that this wouldn't be as bad. No dice. I've put it off or for one reason or another it didn't get taken care of till today.
Tuesday the Immunization Clinic here at the base was closed by the time we got out of his appointment. Wednsday when we went up there, there was a whole mess of flight students and they said the wait would be over an hour and a half long. Yesterday by the time I got up there (at 345pm) the sign said they close at 1230 on Thursdays. So Jess and I went today. (Trace got shots too)
Jr was supposed to get 3 shots and 1 oral vaccine. I elected to do only one today and do the rest next week. The one we did today was the combo shot that has like 4 vaccines in it. It looked huge to me! The Immunization clinic and the Pediatrics clinic both gave me grief about deciding to do only one today (mainly due to the fact if he has a reaction I want to know to which one, and because that one shot has so many different things in it, I don't want to over load him all in one day) . Personally, it's my child so they can just KMA! (if you don't know the abbreviation I'm sorry lol)
He's doing fine now, asleep after his second dose of tylenol. Granted I'll take the vaccinations over him getting any of the illnesses or diseases they protect against, but having to put my child through that SUCKS!!
September 18, 2008
Firsts...
So Jr's firsts are supposed to be a big thing. Happy things I thought. Unfortunately we have our very first not-so-happy "first". Our first cold! It was bound to happen, and luckily for him he's taking after his dad and not getting it as badly as him momma - which we would like to keep it that way!
He's got some congestion and just general "mommy can tell he doesn't feel good" symptoms, while mom's got the constantly runny nose, sore throat and drainage from both ears (and one is infected according to the Dr. so I am on antibiotics.) I'm a lovely sight let me tell ya! The pediatrician gave me the all clear today to start taking some suedafed, and while I can only take one tablet every 6-8 hours (a downfall to breastfeeding - but hey what can you do?) it has already started helping immensely! Hopefully the benefits will carry over to Jr too!
Jr's 2 month appointment... and Follow up
Well our little "moose" had his two month appointment on Tuesday, and I just realized I never updated...
Height: 24.5" (90% for his age)
Weight: 14.05lbs (91%)
Head Circumfrance: 15.75" (50%)
In the two days since his original appointment - he's gained another 2 oz! I think my son is attempting to be an overachiever in his weight and height but not letting it go to his head ;). The Dr was happy with his overall growth, his reflux is seeming to be under control. We delayed shots due to the congestion he has, today was a possiblity if it had cleared up but alas it was not to be! We go back to recheck on Monday. Personally, I would rather do shots when Daddy is there to help! (Jr will not be the only one upset - and Yes I know I'm supposed to take it like a mom and be tough, but I'm still kinda working on that one when it comes to Jr.)
He's got some congestion and just general "mommy can tell he doesn't feel good" symptoms, while mom's got the constantly runny nose, sore throat and drainage from both ears (and one is infected according to the Dr. so I am on antibiotics.) I'm a lovely sight let me tell ya! The pediatrician gave me the all clear today to start taking some suedafed, and while I can only take one tablet every 6-8 hours (a downfall to breastfeeding - but hey what can you do?) it has already started helping immensely! Hopefully the benefits will carry over to Jr too!
Jr's 2 month appointment... and Follow up
Well our little "moose" had his two month appointment on Tuesday, and I just realized I never updated...
Height: 24.5" (90% for his age)
Weight: 14.05lbs (91%)
Head Circumfrance: 15.75" (50%)
In the two days since his original appointment - he's gained another 2 oz! I think my son is attempting to be an overachiever in his weight and height but not letting it go to his head ;). The Dr was happy with his overall growth, his reflux is seeming to be under control. We delayed shots due to the congestion he has, today was a possiblity if it had cleared up but alas it was not to be! We go back to recheck on Monday. Personally, I would rather do shots when Daddy is there to help! (Jr will not be the only one upset - and Yes I know I'm supposed to take it like a mom and be tough, but I'm still kinda working on that one when it comes to Jr.)
August 13, 2008
1 Month Old!
We are 1 Month Old!
Junior turned a month old yesterday, but will actually be a month on Friday. Man where does the time go??
We went to the Dr this morning because Jr has been super fussy on and off the past couple days, and then last night he spit up some blood. The Dr diagnoised it as Gastritis due to Reflux and perscribed Zantac 2x a day. While we where there they went ahead and did his 1mo stuff too.
Junior's 1 mo Old stats:
weight: 10lbs 7 1/2oz - up from 9lb 12oz on last Thursday.
height: 22 1/4"
head Circumfrance: 15"
It's official... I'm the mom of a Moose! My mom was calling him "Fatty" while she was here, but we didn't exactly care for that nickname so we decided on Moose. ;)
Junior turned a month old yesterday, but will actually be a month on Friday. Man where does the time go??
We went to the Dr this morning because Jr has been super fussy on and off the past couple days, and then last night he spit up some blood. The Dr diagnoised it as Gastritis due to Reflux and perscribed Zantac 2x a day. While we where there they went ahead and did his 1mo stuff too.
Junior's 1 mo Old stats:
weight: 10lbs 7 1/2oz - up from 9lb 12oz on last Thursday.
height: 22 1/4"
head Circumfrance: 15"
It's official... I'm the mom of a Moose! My mom was calling him "Fatty" while she was here, but we didn't exactly care for that nickname so we decided on Moose. ;)
August 03, 2008
Updates, Surgery and Overwhelmed
Man what a way to start off a new month! (disclaimer: I apologize for the spelling/grammer mistakes.. I'm on pain medication as I write this. You'll understand by the end of this post)
Juniors 2wk appointment
Went wonderfully! My little man who I thought wasn't getting enough to eat was in fact getting enough! :) We are now above his birthdweight!!! As of Friday he weighed in at 9lbs 4oz!!! He's quite the chunky little monkey but hasn't grown in height yet. But it's okay because he will :) His bili levels where low, at 9.4 which made the Ped happy. We still have the bili blanket incase he rebounds agian. Chris has to take him tomorrow for a recheck. The ped thinks if it is still low by tomorrow then we should be done with the blanket. :)
Surgery?
Okay so Weds night I had a minor gall bladder attack. It was controlable at home with the pain meds from my c-section. I hadn't eaten anything that triggered them for me in the past so I couldn't figure out what the heck was going on. Thursday night, I had another one but was not so lucky on the pain tolerance. With in about 10-20 minutes of taking a lortab, it along with my dinner came right back up. The kicker also - normally after puking with one of these attacks I feel better - but this time the pain got worse. So Chris loaded Jr and me up in the car and we went to the ER. They did a work up, blood, ultrasound ect to try and figure out what is going on. They then called the surgeon I saw back in March. He said to come in on Monday & we would schedule surgery for Tuesday. Alas it was not to be. After getting out of the ER, and taking Jr to his 2wk appointment, I ate some scrambled eggs and a tortilla for breakfast. Needless to say, less then a half hour or so after eating, I was right back where I started at, in pain and ready to puke. (for the record, scrambled eggs DO NOT look pretty on the rebound.) So Chris called the surgeon, who said it's time for my gallbladder to come out NOW.
So I had surgery on Friday afternoon. Oh and remember how I don't seem to do anything easy??? Well a rouge stone escaped my gall bladder and is now blocking the common bile duct to my pancreas. So I'm still in the same perdicament I was before this started. I get to have some sort of scope down my throat tomorrow sometime to remove that stone. In the mean time, I have this oh so lovely drain in my side (which I am convinced makes my side hurt even more then it did before the surgery) that is a royal pain to deal with when I have to use the rest room.
Where does this leave me?
Since the surgery I feel incredibly overwhelmed. I am in too much pain to hold my son, which sucks because even though I can't breast feed him directly right now I can't even hold him to give him a bottle. I can't wait for the next proceedure to be over so that I can go home, and lay in my own bed, and hopefully soon I'll be able to hold Jr agian!!!!
Juniors 2wk appointment
Went wonderfully! My little man who I thought wasn't getting enough to eat was in fact getting enough! :) We are now above his birthdweight!!! As of Friday he weighed in at 9lbs 4oz!!! He's quite the chunky little monkey but hasn't grown in height yet. But it's okay because he will :) His bili levels where low, at 9.4 which made the Ped happy. We still have the bili blanket incase he rebounds agian. Chris has to take him tomorrow for a recheck. The ped thinks if it is still low by tomorrow then we should be done with the blanket. :)
Surgery?
Okay so Weds night I had a minor gall bladder attack. It was controlable at home with the pain meds from my c-section. I hadn't eaten anything that triggered them for me in the past so I couldn't figure out what the heck was going on. Thursday night, I had another one but was not so lucky on the pain tolerance. With in about 10-20 minutes of taking a lortab, it along with my dinner came right back up. The kicker also - normally after puking with one of these attacks I feel better - but this time the pain got worse. So Chris loaded Jr and me up in the car and we went to the ER. They did a work up, blood, ultrasound ect to try and figure out what is going on. They then called the surgeon I saw back in March. He said to come in on Monday & we would schedule surgery for Tuesday. Alas it was not to be. After getting out of the ER, and taking Jr to his 2wk appointment, I ate some scrambled eggs and a tortilla for breakfast. Needless to say, less then a half hour or so after eating, I was right back where I started at, in pain and ready to puke. (for the record, scrambled eggs DO NOT look pretty on the rebound.) So Chris called the surgeon, who said it's time for my gallbladder to come out NOW.
So I had surgery on Friday afternoon. Oh and remember how I don't seem to do anything easy??? Well a rouge stone escaped my gall bladder and is now blocking the common bile duct to my pancreas. So I'm still in the same perdicament I was before this started. I get to have some sort of scope down my throat tomorrow sometime to remove that stone. In the mean time, I have this oh so lovely drain in my side (which I am convinced makes my side hurt even more then it did before the surgery) that is a royal pain to deal with when I have to use the rest room.
Where does this leave me?
Since the surgery I feel incredibly overwhelmed. I am in too much pain to hold my son, which sucks because even though I can't breast feed him directly right now I can't even hold him to give him a bottle. I can't wait for the next proceedure to be over so that I can go home, and lay in my own bed, and hopefully soon I'll be able to hold Jr agian!!!!
July 29, 2008
Dr Appointment Updates
My Two Week Post Partum Check Up
Yesterday was my two week post partum Check up :)
BP: Good
Weight: AWESOME!!!
Incision: Looks good!
Dr G. was very happy with me. He said my uterus was shrinking back into shape "wonderfully", according to my chart I've lost ALL my pregnancy weight - according to mine I have 8lbs to go! :) The steri-strips covering my incision need to stay on one more week then I can take them off. I'm pretty much at the point that I only take my pain meds in the morning when I wake up and at night when I go to bed (due mostly to pelvic pain which is going to take a while to go away).
We also discussed birthcontrol options. He recommended while breast feeding either condoms or an asprin. The asprin is to be held between the knees and don't let go ;) Dr G also said we would discuss other birthcontrol options the further out from delivery we go. (like my 6wk appointment)
Either way, I'm very happy with my appointment - but I'll be even happier next week when I can take the steri strips off :)
Yesterday was my two week post partum Check up :)
BP: Good
Weight: AWESOME!!!
Incision: Looks good!
Dr G. was very happy with me. He said my uterus was shrinking back into shape "wonderfully", according to my chart I've lost ALL my pregnancy weight - according to mine I have 8lbs to go! :) The steri-strips covering my incision need to stay on one more week then I can take them off. I'm pretty much at the point that I only take my pain meds in the morning when I wake up and at night when I go to bed (due mostly to pelvic pain which is going to take a while to go away).
We also discussed birthcontrol options. He recommended while breast feeding either condoms or an asprin. The asprin is to be held between the knees and don't let go ;) Dr G also said we would discuss other birthcontrol options the further out from delivery we go. (like my 6wk appointment)
Either way, I'm very happy with my appointment - but I'll be even happier next week when I can take the steri strips off :)
July 14, 2008
Fingers Crossed!!!
We have an hour till our appointment with Dr. G. Lets all keep your fingers, toes - eyes whatever you want crossed that we get some indication as to when this kid is getting his final eviction notice!!!!
Hopefully our next update will be sharing some good news... and possible pictures ;)
Hopefully our next update will be sharing some good news... and possible pictures ;)
July 08, 2008
Here's the Official Diagnosis
So, Dr G says I seperated (or ground) my pubic symphysis. Basically - take two fists and rub them together. That is what I did to the cartlidge in my pubic bone (where the two pieces meet).
Lets just say that while on the table, I wanted to yell every curse word I knew when he simply touched my pubic bone. Instead, I simply cried. I had managed not to cry anytime I tried to roll over, get out of bed, in or out of the car (on the way there) or simply walking. He barely touches me, and I lost it. Needless to say, Dr G was not at all impressed with this. I am currently waiting for my perscription of Lortab to kick in so hopefully I will be able to take a really good nap this afternoon, as will Junior - who's movements only make things more difficult and painful for me at the moment. At this point in time, I'm all for a C-section because this really won't *heal* till after I deliver, and with the amount of pain I'm in NOW... a vaginal birth just sounds like adding torture to existing overwhelming pain. Dr G said this is something we'll discuss next Monday at my next appointment.
Courtesy of Web Md here is the description of a seperated pubic Symphysis:
Separated pubic symphysis
The left and right bones of your pelvic girdle are joined at the front by a narrow section of cartilage and ligament. This is called the pubic symphysis, or symphysis pubis. As the pelvic bones loosen during pregnancy, the pubic symphysis can temporarily separate. Although this is not a dangerous condition, it can be painful.
You can feel the pubic symphysis by pressing on your lower front pelvic bone, just above your genital area. Your health professional can tell when it is separated or misaligned simply by pressing on it. During pregnancy and after childbirth, you can realign your pubic symphysis by lying back on your elbows and squeezing a pillow between your raised knees. This is likely to temporarily relieve pain and pressure.
A separated pubic symphysis can take 3 to 8 months to heal on its own. For most women with this condition, pain or discomfort lingers for about 2 months after childbirth.
Lets just say that while on the table, I wanted to yell every curse word I knew when he simply touched my pubic bone. Instead, I simply cried. I had managed not to cry anytime I tried to roll over, get out of bed, in or out of the car (on the way there) or simply walking. He barely touches me, and I lost it. Needless to say, Dr G was not at all impressed with this. I am currently waiting for my perscription of Lortab to kick in so hopefully I will be able to take a really good nap this afternoon, as will Junior - who's movements only make things more difficult and painful for me at the moment. At this point in time, I'm all for a C-section because this really won't *heal* till after I deliver, and with the amount of pain I'm in NOW... a vaginal birth just sounds like adding torture to existing overwhelming pain. Dr G said this is something we'll discuss next Monday at my next appointment.
Courtesy of Web Md here is the description of a seperated pubic Symphysis:
Separated pubic symphysis
The left and right bones of your pelvic girdle are joined at the front by a narrow section of cartilage and ligament. This is called the pubic symphysis, or symphysis pubis. As the pelvic bones loosen during pregnancy, the pubic symphysis can temporarily separate. Although this is not a dangerous condition, it can be painful.
You can feel the pubic symphysis by pressing on your lower front pelvic bone, just above your genital area. Your health professional can tell when it is separated or misaligned simply by pressing on it. During pregnancy and after childbirth, you can realign your pubic symphysis by lying back on your elbows and squeezing a pillow between your raised knees. This is likely to temporarily relieve pain and pressure.
A separated pubic symphysis can take 3 to 8 months to heal on its own. For most women with this condition, pain or discomfort lingers for about 2 months after childbirth.
July 02, 2008
36 1/2 Week Appointment Run Down
Well here’s the run down from the Dr:
Jr’s Heart Rate: 140
My weight: Down a pound (whoo hoo right?)
My BP: obviously good, because they didn’t say anything.
My Group B strep came back negative, which is good. One less thing to worry about, bonus!
Junior’s head is not engaged AT ALL (not cool), but he is head down still which is good. He is still high in the birth canal, which I’m assuming is part of the fact the Dr made no mention of if I am dilated or not.
Over the past couple of days, I’ve developed some cramps that well are no where near anything I had pre-pregnancy. So Dr. G amounted that to “disorganized labor” (or Braxton-hicks). We also went over what the new rules of this game are:
Water Breaking:
If there is a puddle: don’t call the office don’t call the hospital the only person to call is Chris if he isn’t present, and get to the hospital.
If there is a trickle & it’s during the day: to make sure it’s amniotic fluid, call and come by the office to be checked. If it turns out to be amniotic fluid then we’ll head to L&D to get the ball rolling even more.
If there is a trickle & it’s during non-business hours: head to L&D just to make sure. “We would rather be safe then sorry and avoid any chance of infection”.
He also said no letting it break in the car – as if I have a choice! LOL!!
Cramping:
If it get stronger to the point where I don’t like/can’t tolerate it, call. It has to be consistent, even if it’s really strong and only 2x an hour, then call (but has to last for at least 2 hours.)
After that … it was “see ya next week if not before”. So here’s hoping he thinks it will be anytime now ;). He also told me that, “There are stories going around about listening to your grandmother’s wives tails. If your grandmother tells you to use castor oil to bring on labor I DO NOT recommend it. I have had several patients do this, and then tell me, while it did bring on labor they would NEVER EVER do that again.” – All I could do is laugh. I know what castor oil is a remedy for and let’s just say there’s nothing stopping me up ;).
Jr’s Heart Rate: 140
My weight: Down a pound (whoo hoo right?)
My BP: obviously good, because they didn’t say anything.
My Group B strep came back negative, which is good. One less thing to worry about, bonus!
Junior’s head is not engaged AT ALL (not cool), but he is head down still which is good. He is still high in the birth canal, which I’m assuming is part of the fact the Dr made no mention of if I am dilated or not.
Over the past couple of days, I’ve developed some cramps that well are no where near anything I had pre-pregnancy. So Dr. G amounted that to “disorganized labor” (or Braxton-hicks). We also went over what the new rules of this game are:
Water Breaking:
If there is a puddle: don’t call the office don’t call the hospital the only person to call is Chris if he isn’t present, and get to the hospital.
If there is a trickle & it’s during the day: to make sure it’s amniotic fluid, call and come by the office to be checked. If it turns out to be amniotic fluid then we’ll head to L&D to get the ball rolling even more.
If there is a trickle & it’s during non-business hours: head to L&D just to make sure. “We would rather be safe then sorry and avoid any chance of infection”.
He also said no letting it break in the car – as if I have a choice! LOL!!
Cramping:
If it get stronger to the point where I don’t like/can’t tolerate it, call. It has to be consistent, even if it’s really strong and only 2x an hour, then call (but has to last for at least 2 hours.)
After that … it was “see ya next week if not before”. So here’s hoping he thinks it will be anytime now ;). He also told me that, “There are stories going around about listening to your grandmother’s wives tails. If your grandmother tells you to use castor oil to bring on labor I DO NOT recommend it. I have had several patients do this, and then tell me, while it did bring on labor they would NEVER EVER do that again.” – All I could do is laugh. I know what castor oil is a remedy for and let’s just say there’s nothing stopping me up ;).
June 20, 2008
35wks 1 day - Doctor Update!!!
I just got home from Dr. G's office.... here's the OFFICIAL run down:
Jr's heart rate: 160 (very active little guy according to Dr. G - I said yes I know I'm the one he kicks all day.)
My Weight: Still good
My BP: 110/60
We had our GBS test today (Group B Strep)- which was about as fun as any vaginal exam. Should find out the results of that next week sometime (probably by our next appointment.)
We have made it to the point that Dr. G says he will NOT start labor for me - however, if it starts on it's own he will NOT stop it! :) I was also given the ok do to the normal pre-labor things like walking ect. No heavy lifting or any of that good stuff, but I still get to get up and move around. One downside however, no more pool here on the base. :( His words "I never thought pools where a good idea. If you take care of it, I trust it. However if you can't see who's peeing in it, it's a no go." So in other words - I can fill up my kiddie pool in the back yard, but I can't go to the pool here on the base. *Heavy sigh* Guess I'll have to live with that!
Jr's heart rate: 160 (very active little guy according to Dr. G - I said yes I know I'm the one he kicks all day.)
My Weight: Still good
My BP: 110/60
We had our GBS test today (Group B Strep)- which was about as fun as any vaginal exam. Should find out the results of that next week sometime (probably by our next appointment.)
We have made it to the point that Dr. G says he will NOT start labor for me - however, if it starts on it's own he will NOT stop it! :) I was also given the ok do to the normal pre-labor things like walking ect. No heavy lifting or any of that good stuff, but I still get to get up and move around. One downside however, no more pool here on the base. :( His words "I never thought pools where a good idea. If you take care of it, I trust it. However if you can't see who's peeing in it, it's a no go." So in other words - I can fill up my kiddie pool in the back yard, but I can't go to the pool here on the base. *Heavy sigh* Guess I'll have to live with that!
May 13, 2008
Not Joining the PTL Team ... Yet Anyhow
So here's the deal. Bear with me this may end up being a long post.
Sunday I woke up with a lot of pressure and some pain in my lower abdomen. I spent about 3 hours on the couch w/ a water bottle hoping that by drinking lots of water it would go away. After no change after 3 hours, I called Dr. G's exchange and talked to the on call Dr's nurse. Dr G was off this past weekend. The nurse I talked to said the pressure and slight pain I was feeling was "normal pregnancy pressure" but I could go to L&D to be checked out anyway just to be sure.
The nurse pretty much said the same thing. So I called Dr. G's office to let them know what had happened. Nurse Viola wanted me to come in today just to be on the safe side. So I went in this morning. Dr. G ran a Fetal Fibronectin (Ffn) test and did an exam to check my cervix. My cervix is soft but not dialated. The Ffn test is a predictor of pre term labor... as in if it comes back positive you could go into labor with in the next 7-14 days. The test came back negative and I'm supposed to "take it easy and drink lots of water." So in otherwords, i'll be hanging out in bed and on the couch alot more.
Sunday I woke up with a lot of pressure and some pain in my lower abdomen. I spent about 3 hours on the couch w/ a water bottle hoping that by drinking lots of water it would go away. After no change after 3 hours, I called Dr. G's exchange and talked to the on call Dr's nurse. Dr G was off this past weekend. The nurse I talked to said the pressure and slight pain I was feeling was "normal pregnancy pressure" but I could go to L&D to be checked out anyway just to be sure.
The nurse pretty much said the same thing. So I called Dr. G's office to let them know what had happened. Nurse Viola wanted me to come in today just to be on the safe side. So I went in this morning. Dr. G ran a Fetal Fibronectin (Ffn) test and did an exam to check my cervix. My cervix is soft but not dialated. The Ffn test is a predictor of pre term labor... as in if it comes back positive you could go into labor with in the next 7-14 days. The test came back negative and I'm supposed to "take it easy and drink lots of water." So in otherwords, i'll be hanging out in bed and on the couch alot more.
May 09, 2008
Things
First Things First
I just got my results for the Glucose "put me through hell" test. (it also caused a lovely case of what I thought was heartburn but turned out to be reflux for the rest of the day!) I passed with a 127. However, I am now anemic. The nurse at Dr. G's office that I LOVE said that they expect it at this point in the pregnancy however I'm a little lower then they are use to. So I get to take a pill every day now. OH the joy of it!
On the Anemia Thing
I went to pick up samples at Dr G's office but he and my *fave* nurse where already at lunch so I had to deal with thewitchy rude CNA in the office who I can't stand . She said that they want me to talk to a dietition to see if I can improve my numbers with what I'm eating and also to take a suppliment. I also wanted to ask if the anemia, dizziness and tiredness where all connected but certianly wasn't asking her. So I'll be asking Dr. G at my next appointment. However according to Webmd they are all related. So hopefully once we get this under control I'll feel better, and the periodic case of the spins will go away.
On the Radio
So with the new car, I got xm radio free for 3 months. Because I'm cheap I probably won't keep the subscription but you can bet I am going to use it while I can. But anyways that isn't what I wanted to talk about. While running up to Dr. G's I was flipping through stations, and came across the Oprah & Friends channel. Meet the Peetes was on. I did not know that they had a son with autism. I didn't hear much about their son but they had a lady on today that her son is now 18 and they didn't get a correct diagnosis for him till around the age of 10. I was very inspired to hear both Holly and Rodney applaud this woman for standing up for her son and not accepting what the "only option" was at the time. I also applaud them for standing up and speaking about this issue when so many people just don't understand and want to spend so much time blaming one thing or another (vaccines, genetics, enviroment, ect).
I also wanted to applaud Holly's view on breast feeding. Her personal stance, per the show today, was that if she is out in public feeding her child and you have an issue with it you better walk away. I plan to breast feed Junior because it's the healthiest thing for him and I want to give him the best chances at everything I can. And I am glad that there is someone who is in the public eye, as Holly is, who is very candid in her feelings about this topic. And isn't afraid to advocate the benefits for the child, and doesn't accept the "I don't want saggy boobs" defense!
I just got my results for the Glucose "put me through hell" test. (it also caused a lovely case of what I thought was heartburn but turned out to be reflux for the rest of the day!) I passed with a 127. However, I am now anemic. The nurse at Dr. G's office that I LOVE said that they expect it at this point in the pregnancy however I'm a little lower then they are use to. So I get to take a pill every day now. OH the joy of it!
On the Anemia Thing
I went to pick up samples at Dr G's office but he and my *fave* nurse where already at lunch so I had to deal with the
On the Radio
So with the new car, I got xm radio free for 3 months. Because I'm cheap I probably won't keep the subscription but you can bet I am going to use it while I can. But anyways that isn't what I wanted to talk about. While running up to Dr. G's I was flipping through stations, and came across the Oprah & Friends channel. Meet the Peetes was on. I did not know that they had a son with autism. I didn't hear much about their son but they had a lady on today that her son is now 18 and they didn't get a correct diagnosis for him till around the age of 10. I was very inspired to hear both Holly and Rodney applaud this woman for standing up for her son and not accepting what the "only option" was at the time. I also applaud them for standing up and speaking about this issue when so many people just don't understand and want to spend so much time blaming one thing or another (vaccines, genetics, enviroment, ect).
I also wanted to applaud Holly's view on breast feeding. Her personal stance, per the show today, was that if she is out in public feeding her child and you have an issue with it you better walk away. I plan to breast feed Junior because it's the healthiest thing for him and I want to give him the best chances at everything I can. And I am glad that there is someone who is in the public eye, as Holly is, who is very candid in her feelings about this topic. And isn't afraid to advocate the benefits for the child, and doesn't accept the "I don't want saggy boobs" defense!
May 08, 2008
Glucola Test....
I went through "Gluco Hell" this morning. Chris and I woke up, got dressed and headed to the lab. I think it took me a minute to drink my overly sweet-warm-"fruit punch"-flavored drink.
I went from feeling fine, to feeling light headed and a little warm. Chris assured me that it was warm in the waiting room and it wasn't just me, however I'm pretty sure that it was me. The light headed/warm feeling lasted about a half hour. Then about 15 minutes before my appointment withdracula the tech who was about to draw blood, I didn't feel light headed anymore so much as I felt the increasing need to take a nap. I managed to make to my appointment with dracula I mean the tech with out falling asleep.
Afterwards I was rewarded with a BLT at Denny's. (Chris' choice for breakfast). We also managed to get the last two letters to do Jr's name for the wall in his room so hopefully soon I will have pictures to post of his crib and the pictures and everything all together!
I went from feeling fine, to feeling light headed and a little warm. Chris assured me that it was warm in the waiting room and it wasn't just me, however I'm pretty sure that it was me. The light headed/warm feeling lasted about a half hour. Then about 15 minutes before my appointment with
Afterwards I was rewarded with a BLT at Denny's. (Chris' choice for breakfast). We also managed to get the last two letters to do Jr's name for the wall in his room so hopefully soon I will have pictures to post of his crib and the pictures and everything all together!
May 07, 2008
29 Week Appointment
Okay, so I guess I shouldn't have said I wasn't going to bring up that lovely thing called Glucose Testing! Now I have to go do it :( He wanted me to go today - but I'd prefer to do it without eating first and I think my husband should have to be there if I have to suffer through drinking that stuff! So it's either tomorrow morning or Friday - depending on which morning Chris can go in late on.
Other than that here are the stats:
Weight gain so far: 20#'s - and he's happy with where I am!
My BP: 110/70
Jr's Heart Rate: 145
Dr. G commented on how this was not a small baby, while feeling around on my stomach. So I asked how big he thought Jr is... His response? "Well he should be about 3lbs but he feels like he's more like 15lbs." Now I don't know if he said that to:
A) Scare me (it worked btw) B) to "justify" sending me for glucose testing - like he did when he sent me for my last ultrasound (saying Jr felt big for his age - but he was measuring 2wks ahead) or C) he was just trying to be funny with his odd sense of humor.
Other than that here are the stats:
Weight gain so far: 20#'s - and he's happy with where I am!
My BP: 110/70
Jr's Heart Rate: 145
Dr. G commented on how this was not a small baby, while feeling around on my stomach. So I asked how big he thought Jr is... His response? "Well he should be about 3lbs but he feels like he's more like 15lbs." Now I don't know if he said that to:
Other than that, Dr G is perfectly happy with how we are progressing :). He's not worried about my weight gain - and said I shouldn't be either. And he said that prior to the surgeon deciding anything about surgery while I'm still pregnant he will have to run it through him (Dr. G) FIRST. Nice to know Dr. G won't let this guy put me or Jr in jepordy, and to know he's kind of protective over his patients :).
May 05, 2008
One Down - One to Go
So I got home from the General Surgeon appointment a little bit ago. Here's what I walked away from it with: Surgery is not avoidable, it's a matter of when. I have like 8 stones - a few of which are at the mouth of the gall bladder.
Here are the senarios:
Option #1 (the one we would prefer): I have no more gall bladder attacks between now and when Junior decides to come on his own (or is induced). I would meet with the surgeon again after my 2wk appointment w/ Dr G to schedule surgery to remove the gall bladder.
Option #2: If I have to have a planned C-section (for whatever reason - he's too big, they want to take him a little early ect)then the surgeon would probably do a joint section/gall bladder removal w/ Dr. G - this is up to Dr. G.
Option #3: If I start having major issues, (multiple attacks that are lasting for more than 4 hours at a time) they will most likely admit me for observation, (observing both me and Jr) run some blood work and tests. Depending on at what point this happens (IF it happens) the surgery it self could cause pre-term labor. The surgeon would like to avoid this option if at all possible. (He had a son born @ 28wks and said he doesn't want to put anyone through that - despite the fact his son is perfectly healthy he still won't intentionally cause a pre-term delivery if he can avoid it - which was nice to hear.)
No matter how you go about it, surgery is in my future. If we go with option #1 (which I would prefer and I think Chris would too) then it looks like surgery would be the middle of August. That's providing I don't have to have a c-section. However -if I have to have the c-section (this is possible due to a small pelvic outlet according to Dr. G) then I would rather just recover from both surgeries at once instead of recovering from one then having another. At this point - it's wait and see. I'll talk about all of this at my next appointment with Dr. G on Weds.
Here are the senarios:
No matter how you go about it, surgery is in my future. If we go with option #1 (which I would prefer and I think Chris would too) then it looks like surgery would be the middle of August. That's providing I don't have to have a c-section. However -if I have to have the c-section (this is possible due to a small pelvic outlet according to Dr. G) then I would rather just recover from both surgeries at once instead of recovering from one then having another. At this point - it's wait and see. I'll talk about all of this at my next appointment with Dr. G on Weds.
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