More Testing for Natalya, 2014

November 19, 2014

Natalya needed further testing after her diagnosis was confirmed so we found ourselves in another waiting room again.  This time she did a blood draw, MRI and MRE on an IV with contrast.  Crohn's Disease likes to attack the small intestine, but an endoscopy and colonoscopy can't reach the small intestine, so they needed an MRI to determine the scope of damage instead.  Natalya did well and acted like the perfect patient, but was scared during the procedure.  The second the nurse left the room when she was done, she broke into tears.  

November 24, 2014

Crohn's Disease can be a little tricky when it comes to children.  The malabsorption of vital nutrients can cause stunted growth, delayed puberty, and brittle bones.  We already knew Natalya was experiencing malabsorption and recently went under doctor's orders to start supplements (like 650mg of iron and 2000mg of calcium per day!) so it was necessary to undergo a bone density scan.  The DEXA bone density scan can diagnose osteoporosis.  Crohn's patients are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis.  By getting tested, they were able to establish a base line for her, then we can repeat the test later to see if her bones have weakened.

Another waiting room.  :)  This might not be very fun, but it's necessary.  She was a champ.  She finished the bone density scan and said, "Was that it?  Easy!"

We are incredibly grateful for modern medicine!  And the power of prayer.  Next on her journey will be a treatment plan.