Birth Defects and Medical Malpractice

In the United States, a baby is born with a defect every four and a quarter minutes. These birth defects can impact the lives of those who are affected for the rest of their lives.

Different classifications and types of cases may result in an under- or overestimated number of birth defects. A well-designed surveillance system makes use of active case ascertainment (including medical record abstract and clinical review) in addition to passive reporting.

Causes

A baby born with injuries or defects could have long-term health consequences. Birth defects are usually the result of an error in medical care or a doctor's negligence during pregnancy.

In some instances, birth defect is prevented by proper nutrition and prenatal care. In other cases they may be the result of environmental factors like exposure to dangerous chemicals or toxic substances. Birth defects may be the result of complications during pregnancy, including constriction of the uterus, rupture of the amniotic sac or a lack oxygen to the fetus.

Some birth defects are caused by genetic diseases that are passed down through families. These can be detected by an ultrasound test or a blood test. Some of these illnesses, such as PKU and sickle cell disease can be treated or prevented. Some birth defects are not recognized to be the cause. They are referred to as congenital conditions, or congenital anomalies.

Women who are over 30 and are of certain ethnicities have an increased chance of having birth defects. Couples with a similar history of genetic diseases might want to consult a genetic counsellor prior to trying to get pregnant. This can help couples determine whether they'll need further testing. Newborn screening tests can identify certain conditions, such as critical congenital heart defects, as well as certain infections, which can be treated as soon as they are identified.

Diagnosis

A birth defect attorney defect is an abnormal growth that can affect any body part and can affect the way organs work or the structure of the body. Birth defects can be identified by a healthcare professional during the pregnancy process, at birth, or in early childhood. Certain birth defects, such as palates, lips, or craniofacial abnormalities, are apparent. Others aren't as obvious, such as congenital cardiac diseases and biliary atresia (an obstructing of the duct which carries bile to the liver).

Many birth defects are diagnosed by newborn screening tests, that look for specific health issues. These include PKU as well as congenital hypothyroidism and sickle cell disease. Newborn screening can also be used to detect genetic disorders like Down syndrome. A healthcare professional can detect some birth defects through ultrasounds during pregnancy and blood tests, based on the type of defect.

It may not always be it possible to pinpoint the cause of a birth defect, but it is typically attributed to environmental factors. This could include exposure to prescription or over-the counter drugs, chemical substances that contaminate water and air in communities, or complications during pregnancy or birth. Sometimes, birth defects occur because a physician failed to make the necessary steps to treat or prevent the occurrence of a medical condition. In these cases medical malpractice claims can be pursued.

Treatment

Treatment options for a suspected birth defect differ based on the severity and type of birth defect. Some birth defects can be corrected before the baby is born. Others may require surgery or medical intervention after the baby is born.

A majority of birth defects are chromosomal. due to missing or additional genes in a person's cells. They are typically passed down from parents. Structural birth defects include things like cleft lips or neural tube defects as well as heart problems. These are usually caused by issues during the development of the baby's organs, particularly during the first 3 months of pregnancy.

Screening tests are performed during pregnancy, or following birth defect lawyer. They are also able to be done later in life, if symptoms start to appear. These tests can be performed via ultrasounds and blood tests. A person can also have an genetic test for birth defects to determine whether they are predisposed to a particular ailment.

It's not always easy to prevent Birth defect attorney defects. Some birth defects result from complications that occur during pregnancy, whereas others can be traced back to environmental factors. The use of tobacco, drugs or alcohol during pregnancy could cause birth defects. Certain birth defects are related to chemicals that can be found in the natural environment, including pesticides and herbicides, such as Agent Orange used during the Vietnam War from 1962 to 1971.

Compensation

Despite the recent advances in medical science, birth defects and injuries remain a tragic reality. Many birth defects can be avoided. If you have a child who has an issue with their birth that could be the result of the negligence of medical professionals, it is essential to consult an expert lawyer as soon as you can. An empathetic and experienced medical malpractice attorney can help you comprehend your legal options and pursue compensation to cover your family's costs and losses.

Our team of skilled birth defect lawyers has years of experience handling wrongful birth claims. We are a plaintiffs-only company and are proud of the quality of service we offer our clients. We will take the burden off your shoulders so that you can concentrate on your child and your family.

We can assist you in pursuing damages, which include past and future medical expenses as well as loss of income, punitive damages in certain circumstances, and emotional stress. Our lawyers will investigate your case and then work to ensure the most favorable outcome for your family.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers are required to thoroughly test their products prior to releasing them onto the market, and to inform consumers of the potential adverse effects. If, however, your child's birth defect was caused by a drug you may bring a lawsuit for product liability with the assistance of a birth defects drug lawyer.