How’s Your Blood Pressure?
Halloween at our house meant a trip to the neurologist. Ever since I realized that Dylan’s pills were causing much of his angst (and mine), I’ve been desperate to get him to the doctor and do something. So we went.
Of course, like any good parent who thinks she knows more than the doctor, I got out a library book called Straight Talk About Psychiatric Medications for Kids. I studied it until the morning of the appointment, making mental notes about the best medications for ADHD. I had two suggestions for the doctor based on what I read – although we have a doctor with whom I feel infinitely comfortable. She not only knows her stuff, I trust that she takes seriously the care of my son. I think she cares about him, which is really what matters.
When medicating him for the first time, we met plenty of the other kind of doctor. But that’s another story.
So I went in armed with my book. We talked about Dylan’s issues and after taking copious notes, she gave us two suggestions: my first choice (based on my book) was one that was once used to combat high blood pressure. So far, all I know is that it might make him sleepy and occasionally dizzy. It should not (thank God) change his appetite. Tonight, my job will be to read that chapter in the book. It’s also used to treat tics and other disorders.
Meanwhile, Dylan took his first pill late last night, after trick-or-treating. Then he slept until 10:10 in the morning – the longest he’s slept since the day he was sick last year. So far, as a result, we know nothing because he went to bed so late, I can’t tell if he’s extra sleepy or not.
His behavior today has been spectacular. He’s like his old self. He’s insane, as always, and totally bouncy – but he’s kept himself busy with projects and such all day long. He’s doing great.
I just hope it lasts.