I haven't written a diary in years.
But, I'm just wondering if any parents have ever seen these symptoms on their 4 year old (see paragraph two down)- -
[EDIT-- Thank you all so much for your kindness and thoughtfulness. I apologize if I can't answer every comment. I've gotta step away for a short time, 11:32pm EST]
[EDIT 2-- We're going to give him Benadryl, and I'm going to sign off for now. Can't fully express my gratitude to all of you for your concern and advice. I'll let you know how things work out and let you know what the cause was once the doctors hopefully determine it tomorrow. Thanks again so much, you are all awesome.]
[EDIT 3-- After seeing the pediatrician this morning, he said it is probably "HSP", Henoch-Schonlein Purpura, which has an effect on blood vessels and kidney function. From what I understand, it's treatable, but often recurs, but typically especially if caught early will be fine. We're on our way to Hasbro Childrens' Hospital for testing, etc.
Thanks again to everyone here for your concern and thoughtfulness. -N.B.]
[I spoke to the doctor earlier tonight, and he said in the morning take him in. The doctor asked if he had a fever (no fever) or pain (no pain, just discomfort because of swelling). The doctor seemed fine with the "no fever" thing. My son's appetite is fine.]
Symptoms: ankles very swollen (also both knees and one elbow are somewhat swollen but both bendable), red spots (maybe 1/8 inches each in diameter, but flat to the skin (not "bumps")) on legs and up as high as on the butt (though several red spots near the slightly swollen elbow). The spots don't itch him or hurt him. The ankles' swelling made it hard for him to stand. He fell asleep as he typically does, and has been sleeping for an hour or two very comfortably.
I doubt I'll get any sleep tonight, and surfed the web for any kind of answer to calm my nerves til morning. Parents on a couple of sites mentioned Oxyclean in their clothes-washing had affected their kids in similar ways. Would love to hear if anyone here on Dailykos could provide any sensible insight.
Thanks,
N.B.