3.26.2008

Pediatric Pulmonologist Pleasantly Preaches Patience

Maddie's Pediatrician consulted with a Pulmonologist, and they plotted out a new breathing treatment schedule that will hopefully improve her lung function. The Pulmonologist looked at Maddie's chest x-ray and asked my favorite question: "Has she been tested for Cystic Fibrosis?" When she was in the NICU, she was tested a couple times for CF. One day, before she was tested the second time, I had three different residents ask me if she'd been tested within 20 minutes of each other. Looking back, their eagerness to "fix" Maddie is appreciated and their lack of communication with each other somewhat comical, but at the time I was freaking out. She had a lot of the signs for CF so it was a distinct possibility. Luckily, all the tests came back negative.

So, back to the Pulmonologist. Maddie's latest x-ray showed a lot of mucus in her lungs (hence the CF questions). The Pulmonologist suggested Maddie start another breathing treatment to help break up some of that mucus. So now every four hours Maddie will inhale Hypertonic Saline, which the internets tell me is a common treatment for CF patients. It was described to me as a "saltwater mist." Sounds like an expensive spa treatment to me. I asked the resident who explained it to me if that meant I could take her to the beach more and he laughed. I was serious.

The Hypertonic Solution definitely has started working because Maddie is coughing a LOT. The coughing is so important because that mucus has to get out of there, but they are clearly painful to her. She never has easy coughs, they are always violent and prolonged and rob her of every last breath until she is choking. By the time she is done with a bout, her face is red and she is whimpering with tear-filled eyes. It's heartbreaking. I just keep telling myself that no matter how painful, the coughs are productive. She won't remember this time in the hospital, the only people scarred for life will be the adults.

Let's one day break out of this cageOne of her nurses found her a mobile and she loves to stare at the birdies flying over her head. I'm hopeful that Child Life or even Occupational Therapy can also come down and help occupy her mind. It's such a crucial time and I hate to waste opportunities for her to learn and grow. She's still sleeping a bit more than usual, but she is quickly growing tired of the silly songs and choreography I make up for her when she's awake.

6 comments:

Loralee Choate said...

I came here via Casey. I am so sorry about your little one. The photos and words on here are ripping my heart out. All my good thoughts are with you and your family.

Kristin.... said...

I also came here via Casey. We're thinking of you and wishing you the best.

Anonymous said...

Me too...it breaks my heart to see such a little girl in such a big bead. Thinking of you.

Anonymous said...

Hi! I am visiting from Casey and when I read the entry, I stopped and read all of them. What a strong little girl you have. I am praying for her.

punchanella said...

what a little angel! thoughts and prayers for her.

moosh in indy. said...

Yay!
Love you. Love the little girl.
Sending all my get well JuJu's to the west coast.