Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Liver Update

I realize I've kept you all hanging since my last post, but until yesterday, I really didn't have any update to give you.  Plus... I've been lazy about getting on the computer.  We've been so busy with all of our house projects, and between that and me not sleeping at night, I just don't have the extra energy to muster when I get off work.

I finally heard back from Dr. P yesterday with the rest of the results regarding my liver function.  Most everything came back normal, except for one thing (which I can't even begin to remember what it was).  The number came back at 66, and normal is considered 60.  Dr. P said that because it is just barely above normal, they aren't really too concerned, and if I were to repeat the blood work it very well could come back normal because it is so close.

Just to stay on top of things though, she wanted me to get an u/s on my gallbladder to rule things out.  She did also want me to repeat the blood work.  She's also forwarded all this info to the MFM doctor so everybody will be aware and keeping a close eye on any complications that may come about.

So today I went in for the u/s on the gallbladder.  I got the same tech that always does my baby u/s.  She does a fantastic job and I was so happy to see that she would be doing the test.  In addition to the gallbladder, she also looked at the liver, kidneys, and aorta.  Off in the distance on the screen, she pointed out one of the babies, but you couldn't really see it that clearly.  I was hoping she would do a quick scan of the babies for me, but she didn't and I didn't ask her too because I know that's not what I was there for.  DARN!  We get to see the babies again next week anyway, so oh well.

After the u/s, I had to go to the lab to repeat the blood work.  I was a little nervous about them being able to draw the blood since I was pretty dehydrated.  I had to fast for 8 hours prior to the u/s, and I wasn't sure if that included drinking water so I had only taken a couple sips of water all morning.  My experience has been that the more hydrated you are, the easier it is for them to do the blood draw.  And then, what do you know?  She also wanted a urine sample.  Uhhh?  I told the gal I was going to need some water in order for that to happen.  It's a good thing my bladder fills pretty quickly!  I was able to get a little trickle out for her, but it was pretty ugly (very yellow/brown) since I basically hadn't drank anything all morning.  I don't know if or how that may or may not effect the results of the urine sample compared to usual when I am typically fully hydrated.

It's going to take a few days for all these results to come back and then I will be hearing from Dr. P again.  Hopefully, it won't be anything to worry about.

In the meantime, I am still struggling with my rash.  It is so uncomfortable and itchy all over my belly and spine.  Unfortunately it is worse at night!  They say that pregnancy rashes generally go away once you give birth.  It's too bad that's still (hopefully) two plus months away!!!  I can't imagine itching like this for another two months!  My skin is going to be shredded.  Not too mention being stretched beyond belief with two babies.

I did go get some Grandpa's Pine Tar soap and have been using that when I shower.  It has a weird smell, but it lathers great.  I really can't tell you if it's making a difference or not, but I've been told it's the best thing to use.  Dr. P gave me a prescription for a topical steroid, but I haven't filled it yet.  I am just so leery of using or taking anything.  That's nothing new really, I've always avoided taking medicines whenever I could help it.  I think I'm going to have to break down and go get the prescription filled though.

Other than the rash and the right side rib pain, which is most likely from the liver, I am feeling pretty good.  Oh, and the whole lack of sleep thing, but I think I'm getting used to that so long as I can get that nap in during the day.

19 comments:

  1. Well, the liver news is a relief! Glad to hear that things are looking normal. I wish I had advice on the rash...it sounds so aggravating!

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    1. It is a relief for sure, at least for now. The rash is most definitely aggravating, that is for sure!

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  2. Hey, Amber! I believe you are my partner in the mug/gift swap, so would you like to exchange information? You may reach me at katie.jakubek@hotmail.com

    I pray your rash feels better soon and your results all come back as normal!

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    1. I've been waiting to hear from you! I left a comment on your blog yesterday :) I'm excited to swap mugs!

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  3. Good news! So sorry about the rash. It sounds unbearable!

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    1. It's pretty miserable, but if I get to take home two healthy babies out of this, it will ALL be worth it :)

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  4. Glad everything is okay with your liver, but the rash does NOT sound like fun. I hope that the tar soap works for you!

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    1. I think the rash does seem a little better today. Still itchy, but better.

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  5. So glad to hear everything is ok with your liver and I'm sorry about the terrible rash, that stinks. Keeping you in my prayers for those babies to stay in there as long as they need to!!

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    1. Thank you so much Amie! The prayers are being reciprocated for you as well!

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  6. I'm glad to hear the liver issue isn't serious. My husband suffers from skin problems, and I have a bit of psoriasis. I've always found that natural remedies work better for us than prescriptions. I cleared up the psoriasis on my knees and ankles using Avon Moisture Therapy cream, and it didn't even clear up when I used the steroid prescription! Now I've been using it for YEARS.

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    1. I actually might even have some of that Avon Moisture Therapy cream. I will have to look....

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  7. Glad to hear that things are looking good!

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    1. I'm not sure good is the right word, but not too bad anyway. Thank you so much :)

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  8. Sounds encouraging but as always lots of prayers, love and hugs your way! Sorry about the rash being so annoying. Oatmeal bath? It's what you do with chicken pox! My friend has the Palmer's Cocoa Butter that she used while experiencing the same thing, years ago. It's evidently hard to find but she has gotten some for you and sending it up with me in 10 days! Hang in there! Maybe you will find relief somewhere before though, hopefully. Grocery outlet is where she finds it at now, if you don't want to wait. Love, Auntie PS: My trusty treat yourself at home book says "Warm baths containing baking soda (1/2 cup to a tubful of water). Good luck!!

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    1. I actually have Palmer's Cocoa Butter, but it burns REALLY bad when I put it on the rash so I stopped using it. I'm sure it's fine if the skin isn't broken and hope to use it again, but in the meantime, I have to use something else. I've actually just been using Aloe the last few nights. I have been told about baking soda baths, but..... I usually don't take baths because they take too long! I like quick and easy, haha! Although, I may have to start if it helps :/

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  9. I'm sorry you are feeling so awful! I'm glad that the liver situation isn't serious.. It is so crazy that your babies are almost here!! I can't wait to see them. :)

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    1. I know! I can't wait to see them either, but then...Yes I can because they need to cook a little while longer :)

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  10. I'm sorry the rash is so bad, but glad to know everything looked okay. Hopefully, this next batch of test results gives you some concrete answers.

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