We finally have an answer to Kelsey's medical issues & it is called "orthostatic hypotension" or "orthostatic intolerance". Basically, that is the medical name given to what she has been experiencing (a sudden fall in blood pressure when a person assumes a standing postion usually after a prolonged period of rest - Wikipedia explanation). Symptoms, which generally occur after sudden standing, include dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, and blurred or dimmed vision.
Jennifer took Kelsey to see Dr. Doyle (Courtney's cardiologist) today and there were many confused people seeing Jennifer there with someone other than Courtney. They did an echocardiogram, EKG, and several other tests for her blood pressure. The good news is that her heart is okay and that she can try to regulate without medication [for now].
Her instructions are to stand slowly, sit or lie down when symptoms occur, maintain an elevated salt intake (Kelsey said YEAH - McDonald's french fries here I come), and drink plenty of additional fluids (especially before sports activities - but avoid caffeine) to retain water (not what most teenage girls want to do). They also told her to stay active and that not being active would aggravate the condition.
We are very excited to finally know what the problem is and how we can take care of it. Thank you very much for your prayer support and well wishes. Thank you also to the Sanders family and Parker family for the wonderful meal tonight and to Robin for keeping Courtney today (I know Courtney had a blast playing with Robin).
Jennifer is going to take Courtney into the office with her tomorrow for a little while. That will be the first time she has gotten in a car since we got home. Prayers for safe travel are appreciated. :-)
Randy
No comments:
Post a Comment