For those of you who don't know...
During my last sonogram on Monday the baby's heart beat was acting up. It started at about 118 which is slow, so they remeasured to verify the reading. The second time it was 75 not good. The third reading was 146, normal. We watched it for a while and saw a few skipped beats and several rhythm changes. So, I was referred to a fetal specialist.
Ok so here is the scoop on the visit with the specialist.
The baby's heart structure looks fine. All the values, chambers, arteries, veins, etc are formed correctly and working properly. During the sonogram there was only one heart beat skipped and no bradycardia (slow down of heart) so we couldn't determine a pattern or cause. They are unsure as to why the heart rhythm was so erratic on Monday. It could be from pressure from the ultrasound wand or some type of stimulant in my system. I've been banned from all caffeine products. I was totally cool with that since I don't drink coffee, tea, soft drinks anyway, but when the doctor heard that he added chocolate to the list. That is so MEAN!!! Jared took away every piece of chocolate that I had in the house which is so sad. I love my chocolate. I have requested that a bag of Dove Dark Chocolate be handed to me immediately after the delivery of my baby!!! That was the good news.
The bad news was that there is a pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart) The specialist seems to think this is a direct result of the parvo virus. However, it is very unusual to have something show up this far after the exposure (in Feb). He is unsure if the effusion is getting bigger or smaller. In all of my other sonograms at the OB's office, my regular doctor couldn't see any fluid. The precision of the machine at my OB's office might not have been able to pick up the problem or it could be new. Because of that I have another appointment in 5 days to remeasure and see if the effusion is shrinking or expanding.
As was discussed with me during the initial parvo virus explanation, the effusion is caused when the baby can't process its own red blood cells because of exposure to the virus and therefore develops anemia. Right now the effusion isn't big enough to send me to Dallas for an intrauterine blood transfusion, thank goodness. I'll keep everyone posted.
For everyone that is suddenly worried, don't be. I'm confident that this baby is just fine and will be a wonderful addition to our family in a few months.
8 comments:
You handle the news so well. I would probably be bawling. Let us know if you need anything.
I agree with the previous comment. You are so good at taking what comes to you. We'll be thinking of you and praying for the best.
Glad to hear it's not a major heart problem. My friend at home just found out her little girl has to have a heart transplant at birth. It's amazing we get any of them here healthy with everything that can go wrong.
And I'm totally here for you anytime you need to call and complain about not being able to eat chocolate. I totally feel for you!! And of course, I'll be anxious to hear about your next appointent.
You are such a trooper! From a show I saw once, and I can't really recall what show..."buck up little camper, we'll get through this together!" It's all going to be okay. And I will watch your kids anytime you need me to. Don't feel that you need to pay me back either ;)
You'll be in my prayers!
I am so impressed with your attitude. I think you are right. The baby is just fine. I will keep you two in our prayers. I will eat chocolate for both of us. I know it will be a sacrifice on my part, but it is the least I can do. If you need anything let me know.
you know im here! What specalist are you seeing? Keep us posted!!!
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