Quick Ryan Update

We just got back from Ryan's second dose of RSV immunization at the hospital. Next month will be his last dose, but we'll still follow up with the pre-term baby specialist till he's about 2 years old.

It's been awhile since he was last officially weighed (about a month). He is gaining very well. He's up to about 9 pounds, 9 ounces.

He's still having the problems with feeding, and with a sore bum (lots of poops!). The nurse said his skin looks a bit better, and just to keep on doing what we've been doing (barrier cream, etc).

We talked about his gassiness/fussiness and bum problems, and she suggested he may have a lactose intolerance right now. Coincidentally, I had just decided last night to attempt a switch to a different formula, as a last resort for Ryan's tummy discomforts. And, oddly enough, Daddy accidentally brought home a lactose-free version of the brand I requested. Isn't that convenient?

We also noticed this week that Ryan is having some trouble coordinating his sucking and swallowing on the bottle. He guzzles a bunch, forgets to swallow, then chokes and cries! This is probably adding air to his gas problem, too. So, the nurse gave me a suggestion of positioning Ryan in a certain way while feeding him, almost like a breastfeeding position, kind of on his side on my lap.

I really hope these little changes will help Ryan's tummy, because he has NOT been a happy little man lately. He cries so much, and sometimes, nothing will settle him down--swing, bounce, rock, sing, cuddles--nothing! It is so frustrating when he gets like that. I just want to help him feel better! (And help both of us relax and get more sleep!)