Figuring out the difference between a birth defect and a birth injury can be very confusing to most. Both can be very hard to pinpoint whether it was something that was present in the child before birth, or something that was a result of an error during delivery.
Birth defects are also known as congenital anomalies. This can develop during gestation. These can affect the function of the body as well as the physical appearance of the child. Birth defects don’t always have a specific cause. Most of the time it is unknown and some are linked to genetic abnormalities. There are also some environmental factors that can be caused by the mother exposing the baby to harmful chemicals such as medications, smoking, or even alcohol abuse.
Some defects can be noticed once the baby is born. Physical deformities, for example, can include a cleft palate in which the baby’s mouth is formed incorrectly. Other birth defects may not be as obvious because they can exist internally. Defects such as problems with the heart causing less blood flow cannot be spotted. Birth defects can also occur on a chemical level, as in phenylketonuria (PKU). Infants with PKU suffer from toxic blood levels of an amino acid called phenylalanine (an important compound found in the body). Down syndrome for instance is where the child has an extra chromosome resulting in physical and intellectual problems. This can be another birth defect as well.
Birth injuries are what occur during a hectic and amateur delivery. This can be very traumatizing and can leave the baby with many disabilities to the brain as well as other parts of the body. Although most deliveries go smoothly there are some parents that have to face a lifetime of problems due to the medical staffs mistakes.
You or your child should not have to suffer due to a medical mistake that could have been prevented. Don’t wait until its too late. If you believe your child has a birth injury caused by a healthcare provider Call Me! I’ll Be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Author: Tim Misny | For over 33 years, personal injury lawyer Tim Misny has represented the injured victim in birth injury, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury/wrongful death cases, serving “Cleveland, Akron/Canton, Columbus & Cincinnati, Ohio.” You can reach Tim by email at tmisny@misnylaw.com or call at 877.944.4373.
