Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Cardiology Visit Today


We just returned from Ethan's cardiology appointment. Today we had chest x-rays, an EKG, and had his vital signs checked. Ethan weighed 18lbs and was 27 inches long according to their measurements and his blood pressure was still doing good. Dr. Williams said that Ethan was looking really healthy. His oxygen levels were 88% on room air. The Dr. adjusted some of Ethan's medication doses and took him off of the lasix completely. That is good news for Ethan because that is the one he dislikes the most. It doesn't seem like much, but just removing one medication from our daily routine seems to make a difference. (It doesn't make a whole lot of sense since I am still giving him other meds at the same time, but it really does seem to take a small weight off of my mind.)

I had been worried about taking Ethan out in the cold to go see Christmas lights, but the MD said it would be OK and that Ethan could come with us as a family. We still need to continue to see the Pediatrition regularly but we don't have to go back to Cardiology for 6 months. When he does go back at 14 months old, they will do another echo for the enalapril study that he is in and will also check his tricuspid valve (the valve between his right atrium and ventricle) which has a "mild leak". This is an important valve because if it is leaking too much, it increases the workload of the right (his only) ventricle and will cause it to fail sooner. Dr. Williams wasn't concerned too much about it at this point, but said that it is definitely something that we need to keep an eye on. All in all it was a great appointment and it is always nice to hear from his doctor that he is doing well. Thank you to all of you who have kept us and Ethan in your prayers.

---Allison

6 comments:

Heart Mommy said...

I am so glad to hear that he is doing well... I think we nailed down our date, something that makes sense to all... Anyway.... We wish you the best...Brynn

Melanie said...

Glad to hear he is doing well!

Anonymous said...

Glad to hear that the appointment went well, its nice to receive some great news about one of our heart kids.

Mike

Kingsford Family said...

What a great Christmas gift for your family! I'm glad he is doing so well and won't be going back for a while. Enjoy the holidays!

Michele

Melissa said...

Sounds like he is doing so good! Enjoy the christmas lights!
Melissa

carolyn q said...

You have been so good about protecting him and keeping him out of the public. I am glad to read that his appointment went so well and is now off one more med.
Have fun enjoying Christmas with your family.
Hugs,
Carolyn Quigley