Why You Should Hire a Birth Defect Legal Team

Being aware that your child is suffering from an abnormal birth defect is one of the most frightening and confusing experiences you'll ever be faced with. It's important to contact an experienced legal team as soon as you can.

A lawyer can explain to you the causes of birth defects and how you can file a lawsuit to get compensation on behalf of your child.

Causes of Birth Defects

Birth defects are structural problems that alter the way the body looks or performs. They can happen at any stage of pregnancy, however the majority occur within the first three months. Some are visible, while others can be detected only by a doctor. They can range in severity from mild to severe.

Genetic problems are the cause of the majority of birth defects. They happen when a particular gene changes (mutates) or is absent altogether. Some genes are inherited from parents, but others originate from the environment. The environmental factors include drinking alcohol, smoking or taking certain medications during pregnancy. Exposure to harmful chemicals can increase the risk of developing a birth defect.

There is no cure for all Caruthersville Birth Defect Law Firm defects, but there are treatments that can aid with certain problems. This can include surgery, medications, and special home treatment. Some birth defects, such as Cleft lip and palate, as well as spina bifida can be fixed through surgery. Other issues, such patent ductus arteriosus and Tay-Sachs's syndrome, can be treated using medications.

Women who drink alcohol or smoke during pregnancy are at an increased likelihood of having a child with a birth defect. Women who have a history of birth defects in their family are also at risk. It is important to discuss with a physician about your possibility of having a child with birth defect.

Medical Malpractice

In many instances, a dewitt birth defect law firm defect results from medical negligence during pregnancy or during delivery. A New York birth defects lawyer can assist parents in filing an action for malpractice against the doctor or other medical professionals that caused the child's condition.

A doctor may have negligently prescribed medication during pregnancy to the mother that increased the chances of the baby being born with a certain defect. If the child has a severe mental deficiency due to that medication, the child may be eligible for government disability benefits to assist with their needs.

A medical professional or hospital might also have failed to detect an existing birth defect in the mother's body when the fetal screening was conducted. If the doctor did not perform testing or discuss the results with parents they could be liable for claims based on wrongful birth.

Midwives, medical facilities and health professionals are required to disclose medical records that relate to birth defects. The information is used for birth defects surveillance activities as well as to detect trends, clusters, and possible causes. This information cannot be divulged to the general public or other individuals unless permitted by applicable laws and regulations, including HIPAA. These regulations may vary by jurisdiction. The information is only used for purposes that are approved by the department of health of the state. All employees who are part of the birth defect surveillance program must also sign a confidentiality contract and undergo instruction on how to handle confidential information.

Prescription Drugs

The risk of certain birth defects can be assessed prior to the birth of a baby by prenatal ultrasounds, amniocentesis or blood tests (obtaining a sample of amniotic fluid in the fetus). These more detailed screening options may be offered to women who are at a higher risk of pregnancy due to the mother's history or her advancing age.

Several over-the-counter or prescription medications can trigger serious adverse effects for pregnant women. Pharmaceutical companies and those who prescribe these medications are required to warn doctors of the risks. If they fail to do this, they may be held accountable for birth injuries.

Hospital, medical and pharmaceutical expenses can pile up quickly as a result of an anomaly in the birth, particularly severe ones that require continuous treatment and care. It is important to collect all receipts, Round Lake Birth Defect Lawsuit bills and credit card information, and other evidence that proves your injuries and rights to compensation.

Most birth defects are identified when the baby is born or shortly thereafter, and some can be treated with surgery. Certain birth defects are permanent and can affect the affected person for the rest of their life which can cause significant limitations and disabilities. A birth defect lawyer who is experienced and understanding can help families receive the compensation they deserve. You must start a claim as soon as you suspect that your child has an abnormal birth.

Environmental Exposure

There are a variety of environmental causes of birth defects. They can be caused by prescription or over-the-counter drugs and exposure to chemicals at workplace or at home. Sometimes, the cause is difficult to pinpoint. But when too many babies with the same defect are born in the same time frame and place, it is known as a birth defect "cluster".

If there is any reason to believe that a birth injury or birth defect was the result of medical malpractice and a medical malpractice lawyer should be sought out. A medical malpractice lawyer who is skilled and compassionate can help families receive the amount they are due so that their child's birth defect or injury doesn't cause permanent negative effects.

A number of states have laws that require the recording of birth defects. This includes the capture of information from hospital discharge records. The data can be used to identify anomalies and trends.

This information can be collected and shared via different programs, including: