Re: preemie-l From Gaelle: pain (fwd)
Jackiemark@aol.com
Wed, 12 Jun 1996 12:13:25 -0400
In reply to question of feeling pain, we have the similiar problem with our
4.5 yr old daughter. She was a preemie born 3lbs. Although she only spent 3
weeks in NICU, she had alot of IV's... Since birth, she had eye surgery at
2.5 yrs and she developed epilepsy at 3.5 yr. Her seizures have caused many
hospital visits and numerous tests, X-rays, IV's, and blood tests. Instead of
not "feeling" pain like Gaelles' son , Laura is ultra sensitive to pain and
she has a tough time with doctors, nurses or anyone that she feels is a
threat. She especially hates to be touched unless she initiates the actions.
We currently have her in OT/PT to see if we can "desensitize" her by
introducing her to various stimulus on a gradual basis. It seems to be
working in that we have more good days than bad. It is hard because there are
some days she can't even handle a hug.
We believe her ultra-sensitivity is birth related and we can only hope that
time will allow her nerve system to mature to where she is less defensive and
able to cope better with different environments.
Jackie
Mom to Laura (30 week gestation) and David 3 NDA