Birth Defect Attorneys: What s New No One Has Discussed

Birth Defects and Medical Malpractice

Every four and half minutes, a baby in the United States is born with an anomaly in the birth process. These defects can have a lifelong effect on the lives of those affected.

Different classifications and types of cases can result in an over- or underestimated number of birth defects. A well-designed system includes active case assessment, including medical record abstraction as well as a clinical review and passive reporting.

Causes

A baby born with a defect or injury can have long-term health consequences. Birth defects can result from medical negligence or a mistake of a doctor during pregnancy.

In some instances birth defects can be prevented by prenatal care and the right nutrition. In some instances birth defects may be caused by environmental factors such as exposure to toxic chemicals or toxins. Birth problems can be caused by complications during pregnancy, including constriction of the uterus, rupture of the amniotic fluid sac or a lack of oxygen in the foetus.

Certain birth defects are caused by genetic diseases that run in families. These are easily detected with a blood test or ultrasound. Some of these illnesses are treatable or preventable by a doctor, for example PKU, sickle cell disease and cleft lip and palate. Some birth defects aren't known to be the cause. They are known as congenital disorders, also known as congenital abnormalities.

Women over 30 and women of certain ethnicities have a higher chance of developing birth defects. Couples who have a similar family history of genetic illnesses may consider seeing a genetic counselor prior to trying to get pregnant. This will aid them in determining if further testing is required. Screening tests for newborn babies can detect certain ailments, such as critical congenital heart defects, as well as certain infections, that can be treated right away.

Diagnosis

A birth defect is an abnormal growth that can affect any body part, affecting the way that organs work or the structure of the body. Birth defects are often detected by a doctor during pregnancy, during birth or in the early stages of childhood. Certain birth defects, such as palates, lips, or craniofacial abnormalities, are obvious. Others, however, aren't as obvious, such as congenital heart disease or biliary atresia (an obstructing of the duct which carries the bile into the liver).

Many birth defect conditions are identified by newborn screening tests which look for certain types of health problems. These include PKU, congenital hypothyroidism, and sickle cell disease. Newborn screening can also detect certain genetic diseases like Down syndrome. Healthcare professionals can identify some birth defects through ultrasounds during pregnancy as well as blood tests, depending on the type of defect.

It's not always it possible to pinpoint the cause of birth defects, but it is usually linked to environmental factors. This could be due to exposure to prescription or over the counter medications, chemical substances contaminating the water and air in communities, or complications that develop during pregnancy or birth. Sometimes, birth defects are the result due to a medical professional failing to make the necessary steps to prevent or treat an existing medical condition. In these instances medical malpractice lawsuits can be pursued.

Treatment

Treatment options for a birth defect vary depending on the severity and type. Certain birth defects can be rectified before the baby is born. Others might require surgery or medical intervention following the birth of the baby.

Some of the most common problems are the chromosomal. These are caused by missing or excess genes in a person’s cells. They are typically passed down from parents. Structural defects include cleft lips, neural tube defects, and heart issues. They are typically caused by problems with the development of the baby's organs, particularly during the first three months of pregnancy.

Screening tests may be performed during pregnancy or after birth. They can also be done later in life, if symptoms begin to manifest. These tests are conducted through ultrasounds or blood tests. The patient can also undergo a genetic test for birth defects to determine if they are predisposed to a particular ailment.

It is not always simple to prevent birth defects. Some are due to complications that occur during a woman's pregnancy, while others can be traced back to certain environmental factors. Birth defects are often caused by the use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs during pregnancy. Some birth defects can also be caused by chemicals that are found in the environment. This includes pesticides as well as herbalicides such as Agent Orange, which was used during the Vietnam War between 1962 and 1971.

Compensation

Despite recent advancements in medicine, birth defects as well as injuries are still a tragic reality. Many Birth defect law firms defects can be avoided. It is important to consult an experienced lawyer if you suspect that a birth defect may have been caused due to the negligence of medical experts. A medical malpractice lawyer who is knowledgeable and compassionate can help you understand the legal options available to you and help you seek compensation for your family's losses and expenses.

Our team of skilled birth defect lawyers have years of experience handling the claims of wrongful birth. We are a solely plaintiffs firm and are proud of the quality of service we provide to our clients. We'll take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your child and your family.

We can assist you in seeking compensation for damages, such as past and future medical costs as well as lost income, punitive damages in certain instances and emotional distress. Our lawyers will thoroughly research your case and will work tirelessly to ensure the most favorable outcome for your family.

Drug makers must test their products thoroughly before releasing them on the public, and they must inform consumers about any possible adverse consequences. However, if your child's birth defect was caused by a pharmaceutical medication you could start a lawsuit based on product liability with the help of a birth defect lawyer for drugs.