A Birth Defect Lawyer Can Help Your Family Achieve Justice

birth defect lawsuits defects can have a profound impact on your family. If a medical professional committed error during your pregnancy that led to the condition of your child, you need to take action immediately.

A skilled lawyer for birth injuries can assist you in filing a claim against those responsible. In the meantime, start collecting receipts, bills, and statements from credit cards.

The causes of birth defects

Birth defects can have a variety of causes. However, some of them are due to genetic issues, where genes aren't functioning properly or aren't functioning properly (like Turner syndrome and Down syndrome). They may also be caused by chromosomal disorders, in which one or more chromosomes have more or too few cells.

The majority of these problems are diagnosed in utero using ultrasound or amniocentesis. A sample of amniotic liquid from the uterus is collected and tested to find chromosomal abnormalities and genetic changes. In some instances doctors are unable to identify the birth defect until the child is born with symptoms like an extra finger, cleft lips or club feet.

Aside from genetic and chromosomal issues birth defects can also be caused by problems with the nervous system, brain as well as musculoskeletal disorders which affect joints, muscles and bones. They can range from mild to severe, and affect how someone looks or functions, including learning abilities, physical strength and mobility.

Certain birth defects are inevitable however, others can be avoided. Couples who have an inheritance history of certain conditions should consider genetic screening before trying for a baby. Avoiding exposure to certain chemicals and medications as well as infections and other environmental factors, can also reduce the chance of birth defects. Medical mistakes and negligence in the care of pregnant women may cause birth defects. It is important to speak with a birth defect attorney when you suspect that an error in medical care has caused your child's condition.

Medical Malpractice

Medical negligence lawsuits involving birth defects can be complicated and require expert medical evidence. A medical malpractice lawyer who is compassionate and knowledgeable will assist you and your family receive the compensation needed to ensure your child's regular life.

Your lawyer will identify the birth defect that your child has and then link it to the medical professionals who were involved in the birth. Your attorney will also need be aware of the date the date that the birth defect of your child was first identified. This is essential because it will inform you how long you've got until the statute of limitation expires and you can file your claim.

It is also important that your attorney has access to your medical records and any other documents you may have related to your child's birth defect such as receipts, bills and credit card transactions. This will assist your attorney in proving the severity of your child's injuries and determine what compensation you are entitled to receive.

Birth defects can be caused by a myriad of factors that include genetic conditions and medications, or exposure to diseases and infections. The majority of birth defects are not the result of medical malpractice or negligence. Medical malpractice claims are only valid if a doctor does not fulfill his or her duty of care and that negligence causes a birth injury.

Drugs

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

Often, these disorders are a result of genetics or mother's lifestyle. In other instances, medical negligence may be the reason for the child's condition. A Hyattsville birth defect lawyer can assist parents in determining the root of their child's illness, and pursue legal action.

Drugs have the potential to cause grave birth defects in the fetus. These substances, also referred to as teratogens, encompass both prescription drugs as well illegal street drugs. Thalidomide is an example. It was once a commonly used sleep aid and anti-nausea medication for pregnant women, but it ended up being one of the most devastating birth defects caused by drugs in the history of medicine. It caused limb reduction problems and other physical and mental impairments.

Doctors are required by law to be aware of the risks that come with certain medication they prescribe to pregnant women. If they fail to take this step they may be guilty of malpractice. Pharmacies and pharmaceutical firms have a duty to warn women of the dangers of taking their products.

Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

While many birth defects are the result of a genetic defect that cannot be prevented, a few of them result from exposure to toxic chemicals in the uterus. These chemicals are often found in the drugs pregnant women take as well as in the environmental pollutants in the home or at work as well as in toxic chemical substances in workplaces. These chemicals, also known as teratogens, may cause serious birth defects such as spina bifida. They may also trigger the development of skeletal disorders, delays in development or brain damage, as well as muscular dystrophy.

Certain toxic substances like arsenic and cadmium are found in drinking waters and soil. Lead is a frequent contaminant that can be found in paints for houses as well as art materials, plastics, and cosmetics. Other toxic substances include pharmaceuticals, including selective serotonin receptor inhibitors (SSRIs) that have been shown to increase the risk of birth defects.

A lawyer with expertise in birth defect claims can assist parents to determine if chemicals or drugs were the cause for their child's birth defect. In these cases our lawyers can pursue a product liability claim against the drug or chemical manufacturer that designed and manufactured a dangerous medication. We may also bring a lawsuit against doctors who prescribe drugs that are known to cause adverse side effects for pregnant women.