More appointments in a bid for a happier baby....
The past two weeks have been pretty hectic! In a bid to combat Gs growing discomfort, we have had 3 doctors appointments, 2 health visitor appointments, an urgent appointment with the
paediatrician, and 2 appointments with a craniosacral therapist. Thankfully, all have been extremely helpful. After being diagnosed with reflux, G started on infant gaviscon two weeks ago. However, we've seen very little impact. The screaming, the discomfort and constant squirming, the coughing, wheezing, vomit, choking, refusal of feeds, groaning and general pain, is gradually getting worse. Needless to say, our anxiety, feelings of helplessness and lack of sleep has also been massively affected. Thankfully, two very lovely GPs listened to our concerns, and didn't dismiss them (like one GP did). They managed to get our appointment with Gs paediatrician-which should have been in August-brought forward to this week.
The last time we saw the paediatrician, Dr R, was when G was in special care. It was nice to see in her in happier circumstances, well more so than last time anyway! She too was very sympathetic and caring, and after nearly an hour of discussion and checks, she agreed that G was suffering with reflux and possibly also a cows milk protein intolerance. A plan of action has been put in place, and involves medicines and special formula. These will be introduced one at a time so that we can observe the effects, but hopefully we are on the right track.
Smiles and stretches :)
Aside from Gs regular discomfort, we have been seeing some glimpses of a happy baby. Sunday saw our first genuine smiles (not wind associated!), and since her treatment with the chiropractor she seems to be less tense, and is enjoying kicking around and stretching her arms and legs. Prior to our visits with the chiropractor/craniosacral therapist, Gs arms and legs were pretty much permanently tensed, and impossible to move. Funny how something as simple as stretching can be so joyous to watch! Lets just hope the reflux meds and the special formula will address the rest of Gs issues. We're staying positive, after all she's overcome far worse things!
Weight gain......though still a tiddler!
At nearly 8 weeks old, you could easily mistake our little cherub for a newborn. G was weighed again this week, and after myself and Tim thinking that she would definitely be in the 9-10lb region, we were surprised at her coming in at a modest 8lb 12. Thankfully she is still gaining enough weight, and whilst she's only sitting between the 2nd and 9th percentile, she is consistent at least. Double figures next time maybe?
So the next few weeks are a game of trial and error....hopefully successful trials. Maybe I'll be able to report news of a much more comfortable baby in my next post.
