Update on Ellie’s Medical status

I figured that posting this would be a quick way to keep friends and family in the loop on changes with Ellie. After being hospitalized for several days this past October, we learned that Ellie is a full-blown asthmatic. Basically, this means she has several inhalers and will be monitored by a pulmonologist every three months. Unfortunately, between the asthma and reflux (which aggravates her lungs and esophagus) a respiratory infection can make it hard for her to breathe, creating the need for supplemental oxygen and monitoring in the hospital.  As she gets older, her lungs will get larger and making it easier to breathe when she gets sick. Until then, we need to keep her away from children and crowded indoor areas during flu season. We have pulled her out of preschool and avoid taking her to stores whenever possible. Unfortunately, there is only so much we can do to prevent viruses since soap doesn’t kill them.

The good news is that this won’t last forever and we have knowledge and medical professionals on our side. I am grateful that all her doctors take a conservative approach toward her treatment and look her over with a very careful eye. It is comforting to know that so many people are involved in giving her the very best care.

As an asthmatic, we will need to avoid places with high altitudes and anything else that could trigger an asthma attack. I hope our friends and family can be patient with us during visits, as we will have some restrictions.