August 11, 2009

CT scan, vomiting, and all that fun kid stuff.

I admit, I have a Facebook page. But I also admit that I don't get on it very often.

But the other day, I happen to comment that Alayna needs to get a CT scan. I was flooded with questions, emails, and phone calls asking what was going on.

I felt loved. I felt ... popular.

Huh, so that's what it feels like.

But I digress.

Notice Alayna's profile? See how her forehead protrudes out?


Apparently the plates in her head aren't shifting the way the should be. As the brain grows, it pushes the plates on the head outwards. But the side plates on Alayna's head appear to be "stuck", forcing the brain to grow in the direction that allows for movement. In her case, it is forward. Hence, the protruding forehead.

The CT scan is to determine whether or not the plates in her head have sealed early or not since she has a "ridge line" on the top of her head and NO soft spot. Which is usually a sign that the plates have sealed.

If they have NOT sealed, she will most likely have to wear a helmet so there is constant pressure that will help re-shape he head and force it to grow properly.

If they HAVE sealed, they will have to surgically go in and break the plates apart. (which is the part I'm trying really hard not to think about)

If left alone, her head will only continue to grow forward and eventually it would put pressure on her brain and cause serious problems, obviously.

So, her CT scan is set for Thursday morning at 8am.

We had decided to have a chiropractor friend look her over first to see if he could give any insights. Some chiropractors can shifts the plates in a baby's head. Bad news, he couldn't find a soft spot. Good news, he said he could feel a bit of "spring" in her head plates still.

Before we left to go see him, Joseph was coughing so hard he was dry heaving.

Joyous.

And on the way back, Jacob randomly threw up in the car.

Even more joyous.

Today, I registered Savannah for Kindergarden.

Just now, I decided I need a vacation.

Hawaii sounds good.

Anyway, I'll update as soon as we find out what's going on.

6 super cool people speak:

Scottidog said...

OK... Thanks for the info! I am hoping and praying for your daughter and family!

Love you all...

Scottidog

ldsjaneite said...

Wow. I mean, wow. I was telling my friend (who is a nurse and has a special focus with pregnancy and babies) who wondered how often Alayna lays on her back or is often sitting with her head against something (like in a baby carrier). We were both a bit surprised to hear about the no soft spot. I've not heard of that. And we both think she is adorable.

Good luck with everything.

Serene is my name, not my life! said...

Alayna's head has been this way pretty much since she was first born. I kept being told that she might grow out of it but she obviously hasn't.
She sits up a lot and rolls around. She has spent about the same amount of time in things (swings, chairs, etc.) as Jacob did but he never had a problem.
I'm just kicking myself for not doing something about it sooner.

Brittney said...

I hope all goes well! That's a lot of stressful things hitting at once.

Jami West said...

You've got a lot on your plate right now but you're as strong as they get! I will pray for your family. Thanks for updates... make sure to let us all know after the CT scan.

Anonymous said...

Wow, thanks for the update. That way we can have you (all) in our thoughts and prayers!

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