Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Neurology Appointment

Two doctor's appointments down...one to go for this week!

Today's neurologist appointment was pretty uneventful. Basically, Dr. Barnes just asked us several questions about Colby...has he had any more seizures, does his development seem to be on track, has his muscle tone improved, etc. We let him know that Colby has been doing great as far as we knew. This led us back to our original question from the NICU...why did Colby have the seizures?? Apparently, this is not an easy question to answer. They only discover the causes of newborn/infant seizures about 50% of the time. Even though we may not ever know for sure what caused Colby's seizures, Dr. Barnes would like to try to find an answer for us. He is eager to see if the spots that were on Colby's brain are still there and if there is still seizure activity in his brain. So, we will be going back for a follow up appointment, another MRI, and another EEG in December, when Colby is a little older. For now, we are just thankful that Colby has not had any more seizures.

Dr. Barnes also wants us to follow up with hematology. Just what Colby needs...another specialist!! While Colby was in the NICU, one of the many theories of his seizures was a blood issue, specifically a clotting disorder. So, hematology should be calling us soon to schedule an appointment, where I am under the impression that Colby, Jason, and I will all have our blood drawn and tested.

Another recommendation that Dr. Barnes made today was for us to get connected with Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS). Because of the seizures and his heart defects and upcoming surgeries, Colby will most likely experience some developmental delays. This is never an easy thing for a mom to hear, but I am thankful that we have this resource available to us to help Colby if and when he needs it. From what I understand, TEIS will do ongoing evaluations of Colby's development and then provide us with therapists that can help with specific delays. What a great program!

Colby was of course exhausted after the appointment. He was very excited to get back home to his swing and take a good nap. Colby loves his swing!! Thank you again Aunt Pat and Uncle Lee for this amazing swing...we use it lots!












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