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Oct. 23, 2009
Friday update #2
Noah continues to worsen. We still do not know if his gut issues are surgical or if they are the result of a gut shut-down due to serious infection.
I hope I am explaining the rest accurately. We have had a lot of doctors in and out giving us information and it is a lot to process.
We do know that Noah has some sort of very serious infection. We don't know if it is bacterial or viral. We were told he is considered septic at this point but is not in septic shock.
Noah is in DIC. (Definition here ) In a nutshell, his body is producing multiple tiny clots which are using up his ability to clot normally. Even finger sticks are causing difficult to control bleeding. This is extremely serious. His DIC is somewhat mild at this point, but cannot possibly be reversed without treating the underlying infection. He will be receiving fresh frozen platelets soon in an attempt to help him clot. This is NOT a solution. It gives him a short-time improvement in his ability to clot normally, but does not stop the progression of DIC. It is similar to giving tylenol for a fever. It is important to do and does provide some temporary help. More platelets would be needed if Noah began to bleed more or required surgery.
Noah is also experiencing acidosis. (Definition here ) This is not causing serious problems in and of itself at this time, but is another indication that Noah is very, very sick.
Noah did go downstairs for an upper GI w/small bowel followthrough this morning. He was accompanied by one of the peds doctors the entire time because he is so fragile. He tolerated the initial portion of the test and is back in his room where he is getting regular in-room x-rays to monitor the progression of the contrast. He is throwing up a good bit. We don't have answers to that test yet.
Noah is not awake very much, but is having periods where he wakes up and is aware of his surroundings. He isn't really talking except to tell us he is hurting and/or "choking," which is what he says when he is going to throw up. His temps are still in the 104-105 range.
This is all just very serious. I don't know what else to say. He certainly has the hope of recovery, but he is far sicker than he has every been and in ways he has never been. It is so hard for me to see him like this, and it is hard on the staff as well.
I will attempt to update and/or tweet if we learn more.
Blessings,
Kate |
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Oct. 23, 2009 - Praying!