Important: This post discusses HUS which was briefly mentioned in the post below. To better understand the relevance of this post please start with the post below.
Q: What is HUS?
A: HUS stands for hemolytic uremic syndrome. It's most often caused by an infection from E. coli 0157:H7. About one in 10 children who are infected with E. coli 0157:H7 develop HUS. HUS is an illness that affects the blood cells and blood vessels. It destroys red blood cells, causes swelling of tiny blood vessel walls and causes clotting in small vessels. When the vessels in the kidney that filter blood become clogged, they cannot clean the blood as well. This can lead to kidney failure in some children.
Q: What problems can happen with HUS?
A: Some children have mild problems and no treatment is needed. Yet HUS can cause more serious problems. It can cause the blood disorder called anemia, which may require a blood transfusion. It can also lead to kidney failure, which requires kidney dialysis. HUS can also affect the nervous system, causing children to become irritable, restless and easily upset. Their blood pressure can go up, and the pancreas or other organs may become involved.
Let me be clear, while Boo tested positive for E. coli he has NOT tested positive for HUS. But you can see why we are seriously concerned.
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