The first 48 hours seemed pretty normal for the twins. Dave had to sign some consent forms to have an umbilical catheter type of device put in. They would administer a steroid to help the twins with lung development.
48 hrs after the birth more complications began. Here’s a list summarizing the issues the twins have or are dealing with this first week:
- Respiratory issues started first. Both of the twins had to go on ventilators. Their lungs were not only premature, but they were dealing with a bacterial or viral infection (most likely my flu). The x-rays a week into it are still cloudy.
- Received antibiotics in case infection was bacterial
- Blood pressure issues. Both guys were given dopamine to regulate their blood pressure. Additionally they were give a blood transfusion to boost blood pressure and replenish blood levels. Additionally after that they were given fresh frozen plasma to stabilize their blood pressure. Jared is still dealing with blood pressure issues
- High Levels of CO2 – related respiratory issue, both guys are switched to oscillators that helps them take 100 quick short breaths per minute instead of normal breaths
- Jaundice. Both have jaundice and are being treated with phototherapy.
- Echocardiogram confirmed PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) – a duct in the heart that doesn’t close which is the most common heart disease for premies. Medicine was administered that helps the duct close. Jared’s opening closed after 1 round of medicine. Blake had 2 rounds of medicine and his has closed considerably but not fully. However, the doctor doesn’t feel surgery is needed at this time.
- Fluid problems - Blake is retaining his fluids causing him to appear a bit bloated. They are giving him a diuretic. It's hard to find the balance w/ everything else going on.
At this point in time Blake is off the oscillator and the dopamine. His blood pressure is fine and he is on the ventilator until his lungs improve.
Jared went off the oscillator to the ventilator but had to go back on it. His blood pressure is still problematic.
So at this point our expectations for the 5-7 weeks Jared and Blake will stay in the NICU are more sobered. We anticipate hiccups and more challenges but hope for them to progress overall. We just have to wait and give them more time to recover. It pains us to see them in this condition at the start of their lives and accordingly will be spoiling them rotten when they come home!
