What Can I Do If My Baby is Facing Cerebral Palsy?

 Posted on October 26, 2023 in Cerebral Palsy

The process of childbirth is difficult enough, but when something goes wrong, it can be a daunting ordeal for both the mother and the newborn. Any injuries sustained during this crucial moment can lead to severe, long-lasting consequences. Brain damage in infants can be particularly devastating, often resulting in conditions such as cerebral palsy. It is essential for parents to grasp the potential causes of these injuries such as neonatal encephalopathy, available treatments, and the lasting impacts they can have. You need an Illinois attorney who can help guide you and protect your rights.

What Is The Difference Between Cerebral Palsy And Neonatal Encephalopathy?

Cerebral relates to the brain while palsy refers to muscle weakness. Cerebral palsy can occur when part of the brain does not develop properly, or when the brain is harmed during a child’s early development.

Neonatal refers to newborns and encephalopathy is a condition affecting the brain. When the words are put together, they describe any injury or damage occurring to a baby's brain or what is commonly known as neonatal encephalopathy.

What Can Often Lead to Brain Injuries For Babies?

These types of infant brain injuries can be triggered in the following ways:

• Lack of oxygen or asphyxia during birth can lead to a severe condition known as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.
• Infections such as sepsis, whether viral or bacterial, can get into a child's bloodstream and cause brain damage.
• Factors like blood clots, brain hemorrhages, infections, or asphyxia can provoke fetal or neonatal strokes, disrupting the blood supply to parts of the brain and causing permanent damage.
• Poorly executed use of tools like forceps or vacuum extractors, or failure to account for critical factors such as abnormal positioning of the child, can result in skull fractures or other head injuries, leading to brain hemorrhages.

What Is The Possible Treatment If My Child Has Neonatal Encephalopathy?

Under Illinois law, you as a parent are entitled to file a lawsuit against those responsible for harming your baby. Neonatal encephalopathy is typically diagnosed during a postpartum physical examination of the infant. Children are usually admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit to monitor their brain activity for at least 48 hours. Treatments include everything from intubation and mechanical ventilators to blood transfusions. At Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. we can help guide you every step of the way as we know that you will be facing very costly treatments and may have to care for your child long-term. 

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Cook County, IL Lawyer

Brain injuries during birth not only impact a child's immediate health but can have lasting effects on their life. As you navigate the practicalities of caring for your child and the financial burdens of their treatment, you need a Chicago, IL attorney. It is important to explore your legal options. Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. can assess your case for potential medical negligence involvement in your baby's injury and guide you through avenues for financial support. Call 312-462-4200 for a free consultation and learn more about the legal assistance we offer.