Day 239 - Swelling is down, belly is still causing trouble.

So, the good news first.  The swelling in Ryan's face is way down!  They did an ultrasound today, and the clot is much smaller.  It's still there, but should be gone in a few more days.  Apparently, the new medication is doing great!  The negative of this is that with the new medication, they need to do labs a few times a day, to make sure it's the right amount.  We would hate to over-do it with blood thinning medication.

Since they needed more labs, and his central line is in use with his TPN and his anti-coagulant medication, he needed a peripheral line in his hand.  He was such a trooper, and the nurses were able to get it the first time, with no problems!  So proud of this boy!

In addition, both his platelets and his ANC are both much higher today.  Platelets are up past 50!

The bad news is that the intestine/belly thing is getting worse.  As you can see from the picture below, it's looking pretty bad.  Patrick has talked to the nurses and doctors and everyone is ready for it to pop.  The explanation from Patrick is that the enzymes from the intestines are breaking down the skin.  I'm not sure I really understand the science behind it, but I'm glad that the doctors are aware and are prepared.

The good part of this is that Ryan doesn't seem to be in much pain from it.  They have done an ultrasound of the belly and a CT scan, and the intestines look great... no infections or areas of excess swelling.

The oncologist said she'd like to wait a little longer before starting the chemo drugs back up, which we are totally fine with.  With the weekend, I expect that we won't re-visit the topic until Monday.

Thank you all for the continued prayers and good thoughts!

Comments

  1. Lois HillDecember 16, 2017 at 11:38 AM

    OMG, life is interesting with your baby boy!! Prayers that all will continue to be positive and keep going with whatever treatment is necessary -- that must be the most fantastic hospital ever :)
    LUV U all

    ReplyDelete

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