Pediatric Nehprologist

After many long weeks, we finally got to see the Pediatric Nephrologist. I understand why it took so long to get in- he was the most thorough doctor I've ever met. We were there for more than FOUR hours! And he was with us for about 2 of them.

The appointment consisted of everything from the most detailed recollection of Maddyn's medical history to more tests. Dr K was definitely thorough, and he really combed through each and every test result of all the numerous tests she had done. He looked up all of the side effects of her medications to see if that could be playing a factor. He looked at lots of things and really felt that these were not kidney-related causes. He ruled out central diabetes insipidus and nephrologic diabetes insipidus-- two of the items that were inconclusive on the original urinalysis tests. He said that the ratio was throwing the tests off, but that the ratio in a toddler is always going to be 'off' but that the bun/creatinine levels were normal individually and he didn't see this as the cause.

However, he did inform us that she's too young to drink that many ounces of water every day. He said - at max, 64 ounces a day- or it would lead to kidney damage by diluting out the medullary concentrating gradient(?).

He felt that the purple hands/feet/mouth was not related to the drinking, but referred us to a pediatric neurologist, as he wants us to get that checked out. He is concerned of an autonomic phenomenon (?) and wants the neurologist to review Maddyn's tests. Though, he warned us it's possible it will take awhile to get in and the issue might resolve itself before it does- he still encouraged us to do the follow-up.

He also felt the allergist was the next right step to take. So, in summary- the good news is it appears to not be a kidney problem. The bad news- we still don't know what is going on. We are going to try to eliminate 2 ounces a day from her current intake and see what happens. We need to try to avoid dehydration, but get her down to the 64 ounces. Anyone who has seen her lately knows that will NOT be pleasant, as she is miserable, hysterical, and irritable (nicest way to say this, but consider it an understatement) when she's thirsty and doesn't get fluids. I am waiting for pulled up dates on the Allergist and Neurologist, once I have those I will share.

On a pleasant note, we had our annual Memorial Day BBQ last weekend and it was great to see good friends and family. This weekend we have our "ladies night" with the aunts/cousins/family, and then Brenda is coming to visit for a few days. So it should be a fun week. Jared's wedding is getting closer, and June is filled with graduations, bachelor/ette parties, baseball, the wedding, swim lessons, etc. Looking forward to it! :)