Lightweight

So, Eva has been losing weight slowly the last several weeks, but it now adds up to about 15-20% of her body-weight (7.1 kg a month ago; 5.6kg now). We did a well visit/shots a couple of weeks ago and the doctor said its just teeth (looked in her throat, did check up). Two weeks ago we tried another hospital, and this one said teeth also and gave an antihistamine, which we've since discovered is common here and is meant to increase appetite (we didn't use it then, but will probably start tomorrow). Early this week, Emily went to our pediatrician. She asked for a blood test. He said he doesn't like to poke babies unless it's necessary. He said her teeth are erupting, although we can't feel them coming in yet.

It probably is her teeth. She doesn't like to eat. She moves her mouth around. She makes a gagging noise a little easier. While Eli has had both bottom teeth for a while, hers still haven't come in. Anyway, today I called a friend on campus and she helped us find a local hospital with pediatric hours this morning. Emily and the friend on campus went to a third hospital. The doctor there said he was a bit more worried and they did a full consultation. They did ultrasound of head and stomach, to make sure there were no obstructions. They took blood. We don't know when we'll get the results. The doc said her fontanels have already closed up, which is definitely on the early side, but not uncommon. Friends have suggested it could be something like anemia or thyroid. Anyway, it's all a little scary. I'm hoping we'll get results on Monday or Tuesday. Our nanny also has a friend who took a kid to the main national hospital and has a name for their early birth/weight issues doctor, so we could go there on Wednesday if necessary.

Anyway... Just a bit perplexing. To clarify, Eva is still nursing and eats at least a little every day. Sam also lost weight as he grew, but we don't remember it being so dramatic. We're hoping that this is just the result of the contrast between the two babies, where Eli is in constant motion and can really throw his weight around. Eva does smile and make eye contact, but she seems less energetic. Hopefully we'll at least cross some things off soon and then can reevaluate.