A Birth Defect Lawyer Can Help Your Family Achieve Justice

A birth defect in a child can profoundly alter the way your family lives. It is imperative to act swiftly should a medical professional committed an error during your pregnancy which caused your child's condition.

A skilled birth injury lawyer can help you file an action against the responsible parties. In the meantime, start collecting bills, receipts and statements from credit cards.

Causes of Birth Defects

The causes of birth defects aren't always clear. However, some of them are due to genetic issues, where genes aren't working properly or are missing completely (like Turner syndrome and Down syndrome). They can also be caused by chromosomal problems, where chromosomes are too many or there are not enough cells.

These problems are usually diagnosed in utero using ultrasound or amniocentesis. A sample of amniotic fluid is taken and tested to detect genetic mutations and chromosomal anomalies. In some cases, however, doctors won't find the birth defect until the baby is born or displays symptoms, such as an extra finger, cleft lip or club foot.

Apart from chromosomal and genetic issues, birth defect attorney defects can be caused by problems with the brain or nervous system as well as musculoskeletal disorders that impact the joints, muscles and bones. They can be mild to severe, and impact how a person appears or performs, such as learning abilities, physical strength and mobility.

While some birth defects can't be prevented, many can be prevented. Couples that have an history of certain inherited disorders should consider a screening for genetics prior to trying for a baby. In addition, avoiding exposure to certain chemicals or medications, as well as other environmental triggers can reduce the chance of developing certain birth defects. Medical malpractice or negligence in the treatment of a pregnant woman could cause birth defects, which is why it's essential to consult an attorney for birth defect attorneys defects if you believe a medical error may have contributed to your child's condition.

Medical Malpractice

Medical negligence lawsuits that involve birth defects are usually complex and require expert medical evidence. A medical malpractice lawyer who is caring and experienced will help you and your loved ones get the money you need to ensure your child's regular life.

To determine if you have a medical malpractice claim the attorney will begin by identifying your child's birth defect and connecting it to the medical professionals who were involved in his or her delivery. The lawyer will also have to determine the date that your child's birth defect was discovered. This is important since it will help you determine how long you'll need to file a claim before the statute of limitations expires.

Your attorney should also have access to any documents that you may have relating to the birth defect of your child, like receipts, bills, and credit card payment. This information will allow your attorney to prove the extent of the injuries the child suffered and determine what compensation you are entitled.

Birth defects can be caused by a myriad of factors, including genetic conditions and medications, or exposure to diseases and infections. However, the majority of birth defects are not caused by medical malpractice or any other type of negligence. A medical malpractice claim is only valid when a doctor is negligent in their duty to care and this negligence results in a birth injury.

Drugs

Birth defects are abnormalities that occur in a baby's body during the birth process or during pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) explain that these birth defects can affect any part of the body and range from mild to life-threatening.

These conditions are usually due to the mother's lifestyle or genetics. In certain instances medical malpractice could be the reason for the child's illness. A skilled Hyattsville birth defect lawyer can assist parents discover the root of their child's ailment and take legal action.

Drugs can cause grave birth defects in the fetus. These substances are known as teratogens. They encompass prescription drugs as well as street drugs. Thalidomide for instance, was once a widely used sleep aid and pregnancy anti-nausea medication but proved to be one of the most devastating drug-related birth defects in history. It caused the development of limbs, mental and physical impairments, as well as other physical impairments.

Doctors are required by law to be aware of the risks of certain medications they prescribe to pregnant women. If they fail to take this step and commit malpractice, they have committed a crime. Additionally, pharmaceutical companies and pharmacists have the responsibility of educating women of the potential risk associated with taking their products.

Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

Although many birth defects are a result of a genetic condition that cannot be prevented, some of them result from exposure to toxic chemicals in the uterus. These substances may be present in the medications that pregnant mothers are prescribed or in environmental pollutants at home or at work or in harmful chemical agents at a workplace. These chemicals are referred to as teratogens. They could cause severe birth defects, including spina bifida, development delays and skeletal abnormalities or brain damage, muscle dystrophy, low birth weight, limb deformities, and heart issues.

Some toxic compounds, such as arsenic and cadmium, are found in drinking water and soil. Lead is a common contamination that can be found in house paint, art supplies and plastics, as well as cosmetics, and many other products. Other toxins include pharmaceuticals, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that have been shown to increase the risk of birth defects.

A lawyer who specializes in birth defect claims can help parents determine if an ingredient or a chemical was the main cause of their child's birth injury. In these cases our lawyers can file a product liability claim against the drug or chemical manufacturer that designed and manufactured dangerous medications. Alternatively, we can bring a lawsuit against doctors who prescribe drugs that have been identified to have harmful side effects for pregnant women.