DIAGNOSIS!

James finally has a diagnosis that explains why he vomits so much! His GI doctors found something on his endoscopy test that indicates a disorder called eosinophilic esophogitis. There were elevated levels of eosinophils (whatever those are) in his esophogus. He also had inflamation in his esophogus that is not normal. Eosinophilic esophogitis is an inflamatory disease caused by an allergic reaction.



At first, I had a hard time believing that this diagnosis was accurate, because I have a really hard time believing that it is a separate issue from all of James' neurological problems and spina bifida. BUT - when I got online and started researching it, the symptoms fit James so well that I couldn't deny it.



I guess people who have allergies in their family tend to get this - like seasonal allergies and asthma. I have always had pretty bad seasonal allergies, and seth's sister, Hannah has really bad asthma. So James has that disadvantage on both sides of the family.



One website said that, "The initial diagnosis of EE can be overwhelming and often affects the entire family. A positive attitude and a focus on non-food activities go a long way in learning to live with EE. With proper treatment, individuals with EE can lead a normal life." haha. right.

Anyway, it is encouraging, though, that we can actually move forward in trying to make the vomiting better. The next step is to go to an allergist and have them tell us what James is allergic to, and there are also medicines that the doctors can prescribe that are supposed to help.

It's going to be a long road ahead, but i am thankful that he doesn't have to have surgery for this.

Thank you if you were praying for us last week. James continues to be well. THANK GOD it wasn't shunt failure!!