I bit the bullet and took my youngest in for repeat blood work yesterday. Both of us hate it (who doesn't) but I've discovered a couple of things that make the process easier for us and anyone.
First, ask what tests are being done. Sounds like a no brainer but I didn't the first time. Secondly, ask about the containers the blood will be tested in. Each test tube is different. Some have additives, some don't. This would have saved us a repeat trip had I known that the transglutamease (?) test needed to be in a red top tube! Finally, our wonderful phelbotomist, Stephanie used a baby needle. The finest, tiniest they have. It takes a little longer to collect the full sample but it doesn't hurt as much going in. My youngest said it didn't hurt as much this time as it did the first time.
Now we wait for the results, probably only until tomorrow. In the meantime I have purchased a few gluten free products to see if that makes any difference to his belly pain. Thankfully there are many, many new products that make it less difficult to go gluten free.
However, it is pizza day at school! Hmm I'm sensing a business opportunity. Gluten free meals delivered to schools for kids who follow special diets! Heaven knows if he ends up being celicac I'll be doing it anyway.
Thats all for now.
Consider ambesol or similar topical pain product if he really has trouble with the pain. I haven't resorted to it myself, but have heard of it done. We've used it in the case of splinters though!
ReplyDelete