Wednesday, June 3, 2009

The latest and thoughts from Megan

Ella had more seizures this morning that were like her first ones, but stronger than those from last night. We are waiting to hear back from the doctor. Below are Megan's thoughts on the situation:

If I might share my nurse-y thoughts for a moment:


My theory is that the IV medicine that Ella got in the hospital is wearing off (it takes a long time with this one). The reason I think this is because the two periods of time where she's had seizures so far were just before her next dose of twice daily oral medicine was due. So, if that's what is going on, I'm guessing the next issue becomes: "Can her dose of phenobarbital be increased without risk of toxicity (undesirable side effects)? Or does she need a second medicine to try to keep the seizures at bay?"

If she is on medicine for any length of time, which does seem to be necessary *sigh*, they will routinely draw blood levels on her (I'm not sure how often) to make sure that the medicine is not reaching toxic levels or conversely that it is not too low to be considered therapeutic (effective). Since she is a baby and is growing exponentially right now, I expect that her dose will continue to be tweaked up to meet that growth.


I thought I would be overcome with fear if Ella continued to have seizures, but that has not been the case. Thank you for praying for me in this; I have no doubt that it is a supernatural peace that I feel. Thank you for loving on our daughter and loving on us.

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