Thursday, January 31, 2008

Doctor's Appointment Update

Apparently, it is not only normal to faint during pregnancy, it is the most common "scare call" that they get at my doctor's office. They always have people come in, to be on the safe side, so I didn't feel stupid at all for going in.

Dr. S said that it is a normal pregnancy side effect, due to a variety of issues: increased blood volume, blood flow being redirected, increasing pressure on major arteries in the body, progesterone dialates the blood vessels, etc. Sometimes, it can be a more serious indication of an underlying illness, but a brief medical exam seemed to rule out any of the more worrisome culprits, like cardiac illness or a seizure disorder.

He recommended that I continue my increased fluid intake, but instead of water, I use a sports drink to rehydrate for about half of the fluids. He advised that if I ever feel the onset of another spell to lie down immediately, even if it's in public. If I am sitting, he said that I could put my head between my knees - at least until my belly interferes with such!

He did notice that my heart rate was accelerated, and since I didn't feel nervous at all and my blood pressure was normal, that can be a sign of dehydration or a thryroid issue. He did run a blood panel, complete with a thryroid check, complete blood count, and to check for anemia. Those results should be in by tomorow, but he really didn't seem concerned that they would show any abnormalities.

My one remaining concern is that I am on my feet. A lot. My job requires me to walk and move around quite a bit. I fear fainting in front of a customer, but since I work in hospitals, it would be the best place possible, if not a tad bit embarrassing. Also, I drive constantly, but he said that it would be really rare to happen while I was sitting down. Let's keep our fingers crossed on that score.

I have a nice bruise on my noggin from last night's fall, but the scratch is barely visible and my bangs hide the damage. I did have another near faint at the grocery store this afternoon, so I took his advice and crouched down by the cart, head between my knees. I am going to be really popular in grocery stores!

I left with an appointment to follow up in three weeks - at that appointment, we will get to hear the heartbeat for the very first time. That will be really exciting!

21 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hello! I'm Kam and this is the first time I'm commenting on your blog. I have been following it for a few months now. I'm so happy for you and honestly pray that everything works out for you. The fainting episodes is kinda scary! But, I also have heard that during pregnancy it is completely normal! So i guess for your "ten reasons why..." the fainting will definately be one of them ;-) anyways...i started up a blog of my own for the first time ever.. its feelingempty.wordpress.com... hope you drop by!

In Search of Morning Sickness said...

You are the kindest person, Katie.... Really. I appreciate the comment and thoughts SO MUCH... Yeah, not having anyone to give me a hug and hold me and tell me it's ok make losing my cat so much harder.... Anyway, I'm so sorry about the fainting spells... sounds scary... And yet, you obviously have a great doctor, to take every symptom seriously... I love hearing EVERY wonderful detail... even if I don't comment a lot anymore, I read it all. I can't wait until I can join you in the P thing. :)

Anonymous said...

hope everything is ok. all the explanations sound totally natural. bump up those fluids and sit as much as you can... take it easy.

thanks so much or your kind comments on my blog. you have been so sweet and I really appreciate it. ~luna

Geohde said...

I fell over off the toilet in this pregnancy when I fainted.

I was mroe worried about peeing on the floor than anything else, but MAN so embarassing to have your husband find you undies around ankles on the bathroom floor!

J

Samantha said...

Well, that is not much fun to have the fainting. I hope the sports drink will help you out!

Maria said...

I'm so glad that your doctor eased your worries. It must be scary, but now at least, you know it's very common. Even though I know it's not easy, don't be embarrassed about sitting down or resting in public or at work. Forget about what everyone else might think and focus on what's best for you.

I'm not even pregnant yet, but lately I do notice that when I stand up, I get light headed and have to stop and steady myself. It could be from the PIO or maybe Moley's getting snuggled in.

Amy said...

Glad you went to the Doctor. Not glad that it seems it is something you will have to deal with. As always you are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you luck!

AwkwardMoments said...

WEll gesh, I am glad the Dr was able to see you and answer your questions so well. I do hope that is stops for you soon! very soon

Tracy said...

I'm so glad that this is "normal." I hate to say it, but I did get a good chuckle picturing you crouched down next to the grocery cart. Ah, the things we do for our babies...

Mel said...

WOW!
Catching up on you and your fainting deal. How scary, I am so glad you (and the baby) are ok. I never heard of that happening during pregnancy, adding it to my list of things to "know" if I'm ever in "the know."
I will pray that this problem lessens its presence in your life so you can continue with things as you need to. You are so strong and I admire you so much!!
*HUGS*

Jen said...

Phew! I'm glad to hear that fainting is indeed normal at least. Although I hope it doesn't happen too frequently. I'd hate to have you too banged up, you know.

Alyssa said...

Katie, what a relief to hear the good news! I mean, I know it can't be fun to faint (or contemplate fainting at work in front of clients) but it's much better to know all is well with you and the baby!

Soapchick said...

Happy to hear the fainting spells are normal, but I also hope they go away soon. Hopefully you will grow out of that phase. Can't wait to see more ultrasound pics and eventually belly pics.

Adriane said...

Glad you went in and got everything checked out. I was surprised (and relieved for you) that fainting is so common during pregnancy. The explanations definitely make sense. I hope the sports drinks help a lot!

Anonymous said...

I'm so glad to hear it's nothing too serious. And I'm relieved that you spend a lot of time at the hospital, just in case something were to happen, even if it was embarrasing. I can't wait for your next u/s! :)

Debby said...

You and grocery stores just don't mix do you! Ugh...your fainting spells do not sound fun for sure, but I'm so glad to hear all is well. And hooray for hearing heartbeat in a few weeks! There is so nothing more reassuring and I totally suggest the investment in the doppler machine. It's such a stress saver.

Christy said...

How scary! I would have been rushing off to see the doctor as well, probably in hysterics. I'm glad that you are normal and that this isn't anything to worry about. Please be careful and take care of yourself. I hope your head is feeling better!

Optimistic said...

Sorry to hear about you fainting, but glad it's nothing to worry about (as if there is anything that isn't going to be worried about) :). I hope you feel better - I'm sure it was Scary!

Thanks for the comment on my blog!

Natalie said...

Well that's just plain weird, I never ever would've thought that would happen. But glad to hear it's normal and things are well.

Anns said...

I'm a fainter too --- well, not in "real" life, in pregnant life. I've passed out on the subway so many times that "Dad" now goes out of his way to drive me to the door of my office when he can, for fear I'll have another spell.

I've found that eating something substantial in the morning (read: bagel) helps. Also, I chew strong flavored gums during the ride since I"m convinced the strong minty flavors keep me grounded.

Also, now that I'm in the 2nd trimester it's not happening as much - if that's reassuring.

Stay hydrated and well fed honey - these kids are draining from the get go!

Waiting Amy said...

Yeah, maybe hubby should go the the grocery store from now on?

Hang in there and I'm sure it will get better as things even out. Great that your OB is so attentive.