ENT Follow Up, no surgery yet

Today we had our follow up with the ENT for Thomas.  Our last visit was in mid April when he removed the right ear tube.  That has been a blessing as it was causing Thomas quite a bit of pain as the ear was rejecting it. 

To follow up the left tube is still in place and looking good with no signs of rejection.  This is a huge blessing as that tube has been in place for 18 months without issue.  Praise Jesus!!  As for the right ear that has been two months without a tube, we are seeing the normal pattern for Thomas' ear.  There is a build up of pressure behind the ear drum causing it to be pulled inward.  This is causing some mild hearing loss at this time.  Most children who need tubes are much younger and the cause is a build up of fluid.  Unfortunately with Thomas, there is some fluid but the issue has mainly been the pressure.  We aren't sure on why his ears cannot stabilize the pressure but the solution does change based on cause.

The doctor is suggesting we wait it out a bit longer.  The new game plan is to try and stretch the amount of time between surgeries as much as we can.  Since the left ear is working and can compensate for now, we are going to keep on this path.  We will follow up in three months and see where his hearing is at that point.  Hopefully it will stay within in the mild range and the left ear will continue to stay stable.  If history repeats itself, the right ear will continue to loose hearing.  So, for now, we will continue to enjoy our summer.

Thomas has been able to swim in the water with confidence this summer with his ears, which hasn't always been the case.  We are using a plug for his left ear as too much water does cause him great pain. 

"Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to ... In all things give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all. ... I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth." 1 Thes 5:18