Reflections on My Birth Experience
I doubt there's a definitive explanation for this, but perhaps some readers might have insights to share. Born female in Central Europe during the mid-1970s, I have a history with Hashimoto’s disease. According to my parents, my arrival into the world was significantly delayed, and I was quite large at birth. It appears that I encountered some complications: I ingested something upon entering the world, suffered a seizure, and for reasons unknown, I was quickly transported 50 kilometers away to another hospital in an ambulance, complete with blaring sirens and flashing lights. My father rushed after the ambulance, leaving my mother behind at the original hospital. Subsequently, I spent two weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit at the other facility. Reflecting on my early childhood experiences, I recall my mother showing me a children’s book about pregnancy and childbirth from our local library. There were illustrations of two babies—one held upright that resembled Superman and another that appeared as if it was packed like a sack of potatoes. My mother claimed I was the latter, which seems fitting considering my muscle condition. Whenever I attempt to engage my muscles, they tighten painfully, and this discomfort escalates the longer I exert myself. Activities like climbing stairs, tidying the kitchen, writing, or navigating through traffic can be excruciating. The sensation often feels as if my muscles are straining to break free yet are restrained and compressed. Even simple tasks are akin to moving through water, requiring immense effort. I wasn't able to run or play as other children did, although I possess considerable muscle strength, particularly in my lower legs. Interestingly, I struggled with fasting as a baby, as my mother recalls, needing constant nourishment. This need eventually subsided as I became more autonomous, likely because I would often sneak food from the kitchen and wasn’t particularly hungry during designated meal times. Moreover, my mother had limited cooking skills which didn’t help matters. Therefore, I find myself contemplating whether something went awry during my birth process.
Answers (1)
3/17/2025, 7:20:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
Diagnosis:
Your reflections and experiences suggest a complex interplay of early birth complications and possible underlying musculoskeletal or neurological conditions. Given your history with Hashimoto’s disease, it’s possible that your muscle discomfort and strain might also be affected by this endocrine disorder, which can lead to fatigue and muscle weakness.
Evidence:
Complications at birth, particularly those involving oxygen deprivation or trauma, can sometimes lead to neuromuscular issues later in life. The seizure you experienced may be related to this, as seizures can occur due to various factors during delivery. Your recollections of muscle tightness and difficulty with physical activities may also align with conditions such as myopathy or other neuromuscular disorders. The need for constant nourishment during infancy and your mother's concerns can reflect metabolic challenges, which might also be related to your thyroid condition.
Action Plan:
- Consultation with a Specialist: It may be beneficial for you to consult with a neurologist or a rheumatologist to explore your muscle issues in detail. They might recommend tests such as blood work, electromyography (EMG), or muscle biopsies to better understand your condition.
- Physical Therapy: Engaging in a tailored physical therapy program can help improve muscle function and reduce discomfort. A physical therapist can create a safe and effective exercise plan that suits your specific needs.
- Monitor Thyroid Levels: Regularly check your thyroid hormone levels, as optimal management of Hashimoto’s can have positive effects on your overall well-being and energy.
Cost-Effective Treatment:
- Community Health Centers: To access affordable healthcare services, consider visiting a local community health center, which often provides lower-cost services on a sliding fee scale based on income.
- Generic Medications: If medications are needed for your condition, ask your healthcare provider if generic versions are available, as they tend to be more affordable.
- Online Resources: Utilize online platforms that provide telehealth services, which can often be more budget-friendly than traditional in-office visits.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
If you experience severe pain, significant changes in muscle strength, or any new symptoms, it’s important to seek medical care promptly. Keep a diary of your muscle symptoms and activities to help your healthcare provider understand your condition better.
By addressing these aspects, you might find it easier to navigate your health and improve your quality of life.
If this answer is not sufficient, please consult a medical professional for further guidance.
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Cons: Surgical scar, longer recovery time (7-14 days in hospital) - Duration: 2-4 hours ### Option 3: **Liver Transplantation** - We have been advised this is not necessary as the portal vein is functional and liver health is improving. --- ## SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER: 1. **With a functional portal vein (6.1 mm) and improving liver function (ALT normalized), is it advisable to pursue endovascular closure as the preferred treatment?** 2. **Despite ALT levels improving, the bilirubin remains consistently high (242). Should this be a cause for concern? Is there a prospect for it to normalize post shunt closure?** 3. **Are the hemangiomas/nodules (11.6×20.7 mm) linked to the shunt? Will they likely resolve following shunt repair?** 4. **How urgent is the proposed intervention? Is immediate action required, or is there flexibility to wait a few months?** 5. **What complications should we be vigilant for during the waiting period?** 6. **Regarding endovascular closure - what is the average success rate for infants aged 7 months? Are there concerns regarding the shunt size (9.9 mm)?** 7. **The measurement of the portal vein has shown improvement from 6.1 mm to 3.9 mm; should this be perceived as a positive sign or a reason for concern?** 8. **Are there special directives (diet modifications, medications) we should consider while awaiting the procedure?** 9. **Post-procedure, how long should we expect it might take for:** - Normalization of bilirubin levels? - Return of stool color to normal? - Resolution of jaundice? - Regression of hemangiomas? 10. **Can you recommend any specialized centers for pediatric Abernethy malformation treatments? We are located in Uzbekistan but are prepared to travel (to Turkey, Russia, South Korea, etc.)** --- ## ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - No family history of hepatic diseases - Pregnancy and delivery were normal - No additional congenital defects identified - Immunizations up to date - No history of bleeding disorders - No signs indicative of encephalopathy - Child is alert and engaged --- **I can supply actual MSCT images and comprehensive lab reports if they would be of assistance.** We sincerely appreciate any insights you can provide. We are striving to make the most informed decision regarding our daughter’s care and highly value expert medical opinions. **TL;DR:** 7-month-old diagnosed with Abernethy Type 2 malformation (9.9 mm portocaval shunt, patent portal vein). Liver functionality is improving (normalized ALT) while bilirubin remains elevated (242). Evaluating options between endovascular coil embolization and open surgery. Seeking expert advice on optimal treatment strategy and timing.