Pregnancy is often an exciting time for expectant parents. Unfortunately, some situations can cause serious harm to the baby, including the possibility of brain damage during the labor or delivery process. Infant brain damage is usually caused by either a lack of oxygen or head trauma during delivery.
It is essential to understand how these injuries are diagnosed, what the causes are, and what long-term conditions brain damage could cause. Our team at Aldous Law is determined to help our clients understand these factors so they can seek the legal remedy they need.
Call Aldous Law today at (214) 526-5595 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our infant brain damage attorney in Dallas!
Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of Infant Brain Damage
Recognizing the early signs of infant brain damage is crucial for parents to ensure prompt medical attention and intervention. Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the injury and can appear shortly after birth or develop as the child grows. Key signs include:
- Newborn Symptoms:
- Seizures or involuntary movements
- Excessive crying, irritability, or inconsolable behavior
- Difficulty with feeding or sucking reflex
- Developmental Delays:
- Challenges with reaching milestones, such as sitting up, crawling, or walking
- Issues with fine motor skills, like grasping objects or pointing
- Difficulty focusing on or following objects with their eyes
- Physical Indicators:
- Abnormal muscle tone (either overly stiff or too floppy)
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Difficulty sleeping or maintaining a consistent sleep pattern
Early detection can help in pursuing appropriate medical care and therapy and, if necessary, exploring legal options to address the associated costs and needs.
Common Conditions Associated With Infant Brain Damage
If a baby suffers brain damage as a result of some kind of birth injury, it can cause severe conditions in the immediate and long-term future, depending on the severity of the brain damage. Unfortunately, when this happens, many treatment options may not be available. Mild infant brain damage can result in some mood changes and possible behavioral problems.
Severe infant brain damage can result in the following conditions:
- Cognitive issues
- Psychological problems
- Physical disabilities
- Seizures
- Heterotopic ossification
These are serious issues that can last a lifetime. It is important to seek legal representation to help cover the costs of these damages, such as medical bills and any modifications that may be needed for the family’s home or vehicle.
What Causes Head Trauma During Delivery?
One of the potential causes of infant brain damage is head trauma during labor. Unfortunately, these are more common than they should be, and they are usually the result of negligence by doctors. The use of specific tools, such as vacuums or forceps, can cause potential trauma. When these items are used, they can cause too much pressure on the baby’s head, resulting in brain damage. Another potential cause could be childbirth happening too quickly or some excessively aggressive actions by the doctor when pulling on the baby.
What Causes Lack of Oxygen?
Lack of oxygen can be caused by umbilical cord entrapment, in which the baby’s umbilical cord pinches or wraps itself around the baby’s neck. This type of situation may require an emergency cesarean section to help alleviate the pressure on the baby and prevent a lack of oxygen. If the baby doesn’t have oxygen for an extended period of time, it could affect his or her brain.
If your baby suffered brain damage as a result of medical negligence, you may have the right to file a claim. Our team can work with you to determine if the actions of a doctor or nurse were the cause of your baby’s birth injury and work to help you reach a successful resolution.
How Infant Brain Damage Affects Family Life
The impact of an infant brain injury extends beyond the child, affecting the entire family’s emotional, financial, and social well-being. The challenges faced by families can include:
- Financial Strain:
- High costs for ongoing medical treatments, therapies, and medications
- Expenses related to assistive devices or home modifications
- Emotional and Mental Impact:
- Increased stress and anxiety among family members
- Potential strain on relationships within the family
- A need for mental health support or counseling
- Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Reduced work hours or loss of employment for one or both parents to provide care
- Limited time for social interactions or recreational activities
- Adjustments to daily routines to accommodate the child’s medical needs
Seeking legal assistance can help alleviate some of these financial burdens, ensuring families have the resources to provide the best possible care for their children.
Contact Our Dallas Infant Brain Damage Lawyer Today
When infant brain damage results from medical negligence, families are left facing unimaginable challenges. At Aldous Law, we understand the emotional, financial, and physical toll these injuries bring and are here to support you every step of the way. Pursuing a legal claim not only seeks justice but also helps secure the resources needed for specialized care, ongoing treatment, and your child’s future. Our dedicated team will work closely with you to gather the evidence, identify responsible parties, and advocate tirelessly on your behalf. Contact us today to discuss your options and take the first step toward healing and justice for your family.
Contact Aldous Law today to meet with our infant brain damage lawyer in Dallas!
