Taylor had an appointment with the ENT yesterday to get the Trach scar checked and to have a hearing test.
We knew there was some hearing deficiency, but the testing was to determine what was causing it and the prospect for treatment.
He has a "significant" loss of hearing in his left ear that may or may not be treatable. Some of the loss, maybe 20% or so, is thought to be caused by fluid behind the eardrum. In some cases, a hearing aid will not improve the condition. As in the case with the Opthamologist, we'll have to see what time does. His brain continues to heal and he still has swelling from the skull fracture that extended from behind his left ear to his cheekbone.
Taylor also has facial paralysis on the left side. While his left eyelid has improved significantly, there has been no change elsewhere. We're told to wait a few more months to see what difference healing will make. Then, depending on what's causing the paralysis, there are treatments, including surgery, that may help.
The Dr. explained the nerves in the face like the structure of a tree. In Taylor's case, it appears the "trunk" was damaged, so signals are not getting to the branches that control the eyebrow, mouth, etc.
We've begun the search to find an expert in facial nerve damage treatment so we can be ready when that time comes.
Although Taylor has improved SO much, he still continues to need your prayers. We sometimes feel guilty continuing to ask for more when so many parents would love to trade places with us. But, I admit to being greedy and wanting everything to be just like it was the day before the accident. Having seen everything Taylor has done so far - anything is possible.
We knew there was some hearing deficiency, but the testing was to determine what was causing it and the prospect for treatment.
He has a "significant" loss of hearing in his left ear that may or may not be treatable. Some of the loss, maybe 20% or so, is thought to be caused by fluid behind the eardrum. In some cases, a hearing aid will not improve the condition. As in the case with the Opthamologist, we'll have to see what time does. His brain continues to heal and he still has swelling from the skull fracture that extended from behind his left ear to his cheekbone.
Taylor also has facial paralysis on the left side. While his left eyelid has improved significantly, there has been no change elsewhere. We're told to wait a few more months to see what difference healing will make. Then, depending on what's causing the paralysis, there are treatments, including surgery, that may help.
The Dr. explained the nerves in the face like the structure of a tree. In Taylor's case, it appears the "trunk" was damaged, so signals are not getting to the branches that control the eyebrow, mouth, etc.
We've begun the search to find an expert in facial nerve damage treatment so we can be ready when that time comes.
Although Taylor has improved SO much, he still continues to need your prayers. We sometimes feel guilty continuing to ask for more when so many parents would love to trade places with us. But, I admit to being greedy and wanting everything to be just like it was the day before the accident. Having seen everything Taylor has done so far - anything is possible.
1 comment:
Ah pssh. The kid will have facial character. Like a Shottlekotte-Smith needs any *more* character, right?
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