Fetal asphyxia is a medical condition that occurs when a newborn does not receive adequate oxygen supply before, during or just after birth. The condition has serious effect on the mental and physical development of your newborn. There are cases when Fetal asphyxia occurred due to the caregiver’s negligence, causing a birth injury. If you believe you or a loved one had suffered fetal asphyxia due to medical negligence, you should contact one of our Michigan fetal asphyxia lawyers.
Causes of Fetal Asphyxia
Some causes of reduced oxygen supply before or during birth are:
- inadequate oxygen in blood of the mother
- low blood pressure of mother
- early separation of placenta from uterus
- umbilical cord compression
Factors that reduce oxygen in blood after birth are:
- low blood pressure
- heart/lung disease
- respiratory problems
- severe anemia
Lower levels of oxygen cause the newborn to have a reduced flow of blood, decreased heart rate and a lower blood pressure. This can restrict the flow of blood to organs and tissues, causing an improper function of the body cells. This may also cause cell damage. Organs such as brain, heart, blood vessels, gastrointestinal tract, lungs and kidneys can be among those affected by this condition.
Signs & Symptoms of Fetal Asphyxia
Some common symptoms of Fetal asphyxia include:
Symptoms before delivery
- Abnormal heart rate
- Increased acidity level in Fetal’ blood
Symptoms at birth
Treatment for Fetal Asphyxia
Fetal asphyxia is a complex condition, quite difficult to prevent. It can be minimized with prompt treatment.
Treatment depends on:
- Infant’s age, health and medical history
- Severity of the infant’s condition
- Infant’s tolerance for medications and procedures
Treatment can include:
- C-section or emergency delivery
- Giving large amount of oxygen to the mother before delivery
- Assisted ventilation to help the infant breathe
- ECMO – extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Contact a Michigan Fetal Asphyxia Malpractice Attorney
If an infant suffers injuries due to fetal asphyxia that was not timely diagnosed and treated, you might be able to hold the doctor and their team accountable with a lawsuit.
Asphyxia is serious and can alter a baby’s life forever. Contact us and speak to one of our Michigan fetal asphyxia lawyers now.
