Well, five steps forward, one step back. The good news is the doctors have completely ruled out
Hypoventilation Syndrome because Ben has not had a problem supporting his own breathing. They are concerned, however, because he is still not showing much effort in swallowing. This has caused a buildup of secretions in his mouth. Some of the mucus has found its way into his lungs and has caused an infection which they are now treating with antibiotics. They have also restarted his
Albuterol treatments to help clear his lungs. The swallowing problem could be a result of his arrests, or it could be part of his initial problem. Hopefully, this too will fade with time.
For now, they have discontinued his feedings, to avoid reflux. The
tracheostomy is still a possibility, and there has been talk of a gastrointestinal feeding tube. Still, Ben's stats are good and he's happy to be tubeless! His little fingers have finally found their way to his mouth again. Keep those emails coming. Ben loves it when we read them to him daily.
