Ohio Birth Injury Attorneys Deliver Results
A lack of oxygen during pregnancy, labor, or delivery may be devastating for a newborn
During pregnancy, labor, and delivery, there are many complications that may arise that can cut off a baby’s oxygen supply. It is imperative that doctors, nurses, and other members of the medical team act quickly to restore the flow of oxygen to the baby. Studies have shown that even mild oxygen deprivation can lead to impairment and developmental delays. At The Eisen Law Firm, our aggressive birth injury attorneys hold each and every medical professional who harmed your child accountable for your child’s injuries.
What causes a lack of oxygen during pregnancy, labor, or delivery?
There are many complications that may lead to oxygen deprivation, or asphyxia, in a baby. These include:
- Placenta issues: Since the placenta supplies oxygen to the baby through the umbilical cord in utero, problems with the placenta may result in a lack of oxygen to the baby.
- Umbilical cord problems: The umbilical cord delivers oxygen and other nutrients to the baby from the placenta. If the umbilical cord becomes compressed, oxygen flow may be interrupted.
- Preeclampsia and eclampsia: Preeclampsia causes dangerously high blood pressure in the mother during pregnancy. If preeclampsia develops into eclampsia, the mother may experience seizures. These conditions may cause asphyxia in the baby.
- Trauma to the baby: Certain types of trauma may hinder oxygen flow.
- Providing too much medication to the mother: In long labors, the excessive administration of medication may interrupt the baby’s oxygen supply.
- Shoulder dystocia: If the baby’s shoulders become lodged in the birth canal, the risk of oxygen deprivation increases.
Of course, there are other conditions and complications that may cause asphyxia as well. The complications noted above are some of the most common causes of oxygen deprivation.
What are the signs of birth asphyxia?
There are several signs and symptoms that indicate a baby’s oxygen levels may be dangerously low. Doctors, nurses, and other medical staff should regularly monitor a baby’s oxygen levels and take immediate action if it appears the baby is not receiving enough oxygen.
The signs associated with oxygen deprivation include:
- A drop in the baby’s heart rate, especially a sustained drop in heart rate
- Excessive amounts of acid in the blood
- The presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid (the amniotic fluid will appear dark and may have an odor)
- Seizures
- Weak muscle tone and reflexes
- Skin that is blue or grey or otherwise abnormal
- Weak breathing, or a complete lack of breathing
These signs should be addressed immediately to reduce the risk of brain damage in the baby.
What conditions may be caused by a lack of oxygen?
If managed quickly, a temporary lack of oxygen may not result in long-term effects on the baby. However, if the baby is deprived of oxygen for more than a few minutes, the following complications could develop:
- Autism
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Cerebral palsy
- Behavioral issues
- Seizures
- Paralysis
- Death
If your child has been diagnosed with any of these conditions, or if your child did not survive childbirth, you may be entitled to compensation if your child’s medical professional was negligent.
Contact our Cleveland birth injury attorneys today to schedule a free consultation
At The Eisen Law Firm, our compassionate attorneys understand the devastating consequences a birth injury can have on you and your family. We have been staunch advocates for babies and families for more than 30 years. In fact, The Eisen Law Firm has handled cases involving lack of oxygen(asphyxia) and has recently settled a case for $5,600,000.00. During your free consultation we explore all of your legal options. To schedule a consultation, call 216-687-0900 or contact us online.