My 14-year-old son’s face became swollen; cheeks like chipmunks and lips resembled bad botox. His mouth ached, with pustules in his throat. No fever. Probably a virus but fear gripped me by the shoulders when he said his throat felt tight.
Sitting in the ER, I feel foolish. My son seemed fine, playing video games.
After 4 uneventful hours: “Here’s Prednisone, Benadryl, Pepcid, Motrin. Follow up with an allergist and pediatrician.”
“So what is it?” I ask.
“Not sure. Our job is making sure he’s not dying in the next 24 hours and you take it from there.”
HeartsEverywhere 
I think the “Not Sure” part bothers me the most. Aren’t doctors supposed to know what’s wrong? After all- they STUDY the human body!
Truthfully, though – it amazes me how much we don’t know, even after all the scientific advancements.
No! They never know. They use things like “A diagnosis of exclusion,” a diagnosis of a medical condition reached by a process of elimination, which may be necessary if presence cannot be established with complete confidence from history, examination or testing.” I went to the regular doctor today and he said “Well I think and we’re not sure and it could be…” Go see another doctor.
Oh dear! That is not comforting!! Wishing you all the best with on this journey to figure out what it is and to begin the healing process for your son.
I’ve learned that medical professionals are not always comforting. Thank you … we are very blessed; this is just a temporary icky virus but he is on the mend!
I hear you on the medical professionals, but I am glad to hear he is on the mend!!
YES! Thank you.