Sunday, February 22, 2009

FVII Deficiency...

The primary complication of FVII deficiency is an increased bleeding tendency. Because clotting occurs slowly due to the absence of adequate Factor VII, people with FVII deficiency may experience more frequent and longer bleeding than people who do not have FVII deficiency. The severity of a person's FVII deficiency affects where, how often, and how long he or she bleeds.

Bleeding may result from an injury or may be spontaneous. Excessive bleeding may also occur during menstruation and invasive procedures, such as surgery.

For people with FVII deficiency, bleeds may be experienced in the following parts of the body:
Nose
Gums
Intestines
Joints
Muscles or other body tissues
Central nervous system (the brain or the spine)


It's important for family and friends to fully understand Niki's condition. She is not fragile, but there are certain precautions we need to take to keep her safe. Niki can still live a normal life and I want to be 100% sure that you all know this. We just have to treat her like a lady, that's all.

I got the information above from her factor manufacturer's website. John and I will be giving Niki factor on a daily basis to PREVENT major bleeds from occuring. Thankfully, she did not have a head bleed during my delivery. She may still suffer the occassional bleed, but her factor dosages should help keep her FVII level in check.  So to clear up the confusion...she is not going to have the same fate as Ethan nor does she have brain damage. She is a normal, sweet baby girl who happens to have very special blood. :-)

P.S. Her surgery went fantastic. NO BLEEDS! We hope to bring her home in a few weeks. Thank you all for your prayers.

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