A Birth Defect Lawyer Can Help Your Family Achieve Justice

Birth defects can have a dramatic impact on your family. If a medical professional committed mistakes during your pregnancy and your child’s condition was a result you must take action immediately.

A skilled lawyer for birth injuries can help you file a claim against the parties responsible. In the meantime, begin gathering bills, receipts and credit card statements.

The causes of birth defects

The causes of birth defects aren’t always clear. But some are caused by genetic issues, where genes aren’t functioning properly, or are missing completely (like Turner syndrome and Down syndrome). They are also caused by chromosomal problems, where one or several chromosomes have too many or there are not enough cells.

These problems are usually diagnosed in utero by ultrasound or amniocentesis. A sample of amniotic fluid is collected and tested to find genetic and chromosomal variations. In some instances doctors do not find the birth defect before a child exhibits symptoms such as an extra finger, cleft lips, or club feet.

Aside from genetic and chromosomal issues, birth defects can be caused by issues with the nervous system, brain, and musculoskeletal issues that impact the bones, muscles and joints. They can range from moderate to severe and affect how a person appears or performs, such as physical strength, ability to learn and mobility.

Some birth defects are unavoidable however, others can be prevented. Couples that have an ancestor with certain genetic disorders should consider a genetic screening before trying for a baby. Additionally avoidance of certain chemicals or medications, as well as other environmental factors can lower the risk of some birth defects. Medical negligence or malpractice in the care of a pregnant woman can also contribute to birth defects, therefore it’s crucial to consult a birth defect lawyer when you suspect that a medical error could have caused your child’s condition.

Medical Malpractice

Medical negligence lawsuits involving birth defects are usually complex and require expert medical testimony. A compassionate and knowledgeable medical malpractice lawyer can help your family achieve justice and receive the money you need to ensure your child is able to lead a normal life.

Your lawyer will identify the birth defect that your child has and connect it to the medical professionals who were involved in the birth. Your attorney should also be aware of the date the date that the birth defect of your child was discovered. This is vital since it will tell you how long you’ve got until the statute of limitation expires to file your claim.

It is also essential for your attorney to have access to your medical records and any other documents that you have related to the birth defect that your child has, including bills, receipts and credit card transactions. This evidence will assist your attorney in proving the extent of your child’s injuries as well as determine the type of compensation you are entitled to receive.

Birth defects can be triggered by a variety of causes, including medical or genetic disorders exposure to illnesses and infections, as well as exposure to chemicals or medication. The majority of birth defects are not caused by medical malpractice or negligence. If a doctor does not fulfill his or his or her duty of care and the result is an injury to a baby can a medical malpractice claim be justified.

Drugs

A birth defect is an abnormal development of a part of the body of a baby that is present at birth or is developed during pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control explains that these conditions can affect any part of the body of the baby and be mild or life threatening.

These conditions are typically due to the mother’s lifestyle or genetics. In some instances medical malpractice may be the cause of the child’s illness. A Hyattsville birth defect lawyers defects lawyer can assist parents in determining the cause of their child’s health issue, and pursue legal action.

Drugs can cause grave birth defects in the fetus. These substances are known as teratogens and include both prescription drugs and street drugs. Thalidomide, for example, was once a widely used sleep aid and anti-nausea pregnancy medication, but turned out to be one of the most devastating birth defects resulting from drugs in the history of medicine. It led to limb reduction defects as well as mental and physical impairments.

Doctors are required by law to evaluate the risks associated with certain medication they prescribe to pregnant women. They are committing malpractice if they fail to do so. Pharmacies and pharmaceutical firms have a duty to warn women about the risks of using their products.

Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

Some birth defects are caused by exposure to toxic chemicals in utero. These substances can be found in the drugs a pregnant woman takes as well as in the environmental pollutants in the home or at work or even in harmful chemicals in a workplace. These chemicals, referred to as teratogens can cause serious birth defects, such as spina bifida. They can also cause problems with development, skeletal abnormalities as well as brain damage and muscular dystrophy.

Certain toxins like arsenic, cadmium, and arsenic can be found in drinking waters and soil. Lead is a typical contaminant that is present on painting supplies, home paint plastics, cosmetics and other products. Other toxins are pharmaceuticals such as selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which have been shown to cause birth defects.

A lawyer with expertise in birth defect cases can assist parents in determining whether chemicals or drugs were the primary cause of the birth injury of their child. In these cases our lawyers can bring a product-liability claim against the drug or chemical manufacturer that designed and manufactured dangerous medications. In addition, we may make a claim against doctors who prescribe medications that are identified to have harmful side effects on pregnant women.