My pregnancy...
What do I say? Things are going pretty well as far as nausea goes...However, my energy level has been low and I have been tired. I know that is normal for first trimester. I just entered my second trimester last week and the tiredness has not worn off yet...hoping it will soon.
So my doctor's visit last month was alright. I had not gained weight since my previous visit! yay! However, I am dealing with the low blood platelet issue again. I had problems with my pregnancy with Evan and almost wasn't able to have a epidural..but I did. Anyways, my platelet level has already declined...At six weeks it was 115,000. Normal count for a pregnant woman is 200,000 to 400,000. So to say all that, Dr. Newman sent me to a hematologist at the Cancer Center.
Ok, so the words Cancer center already had me frightened...So anyways, I spent three hours at this place. I had my blood drawn...count was up some to 134,000. Talked to the nurse, then the nurse practitioner followed by the doctor...The Doctor was super nice and came to the conclusion that I have a blood disorder called chronic ITP (Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura). So you say, WOW...me too. I was overwhelmed by the process and now feel what I called...labeled. I know you are wondering what ITP is...It is were my body does not produce enough blood platelets which causes me to bruise easier than normal. It also causes nose and gum bleeding. This is a risk factor for me as far as my pregnancy because if my count is not above 100,000 I will not be allowed to have a epidural. It also puts me at risk for excessive bleeding during delivery. However, Dr. Davidson said that if my count continues to decline during pregnancy that he can help me before the delivery in order for me to have a epidural. To say all that, I will be spending this pregnancy in a doctor's office...I have to go to the hematologist every two weeks on top of my regular scheduled OB appointments.
Just praying that my blood count stays high enough so treatment will not have to be a option. I go tomorrow for a count check and to see the nurse practitioner.
1 comment:
Bri,
That is SO crazy!! It made me walk down memory lane of when I was sent to the hematologist at the cancer center only to find out I had a blood disorder too. It was overwhelming for me and a lot to absorb and I WASN'T pregnant! I can't imagine all the thoughts running through your brain. By the time I was pregnant I knew all the risks and was prepared. I'm so sorry you have to deal with this during a pregnancy. Try to dwell on the fact that you have already had one healthy baby and you CAN do it again :-)Love ya!!
Oh yeah, you may want to ask if it is hereditary. Noah and Cade both have Beta Thalassemia so I think often we pass these things down :-(
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