Becoming a parent can be an exciting, albeit scary thing. Everyone hopes that their children will enter the world healthy, but it doesn’t always happen. Some children are born with congenital issues that can affect their quality of life and lifespan; other children acquire injuries during or shortly after birth. Take Cerebral Palsy; it can be a congenital issue or acquired. If it is acquired as the result of a birth injury, parents in Louisiana may be entitled to seek relief for themselves and their children.
It is believed that most CP cases are of the congenital type. The cause of this form of CP can be challenging to pinpoint, but there are some things that experts believe may contribute to such cases. A few of them are:
- Premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Mother experiencing fever or infection during pregnancy
- Mother’s overall health
- Infertility treatments
Acquired CP occurs during delivery or up to 28 days after birth, typically. The causes of this form of CP vary. Some cases may be the result of infection, some may have to do with the brain failing to receive enough oxygen, and some cases are the result of brain/head injuries.
There are those in Louisiana who may believe that their children have suffered acquired CP due to the actions or inactions of medical providers during or after birth. It certainly is a possibility in some cases. If medical negligence is suspected, wanting to hold the medical providers and facilities of treatment responsible for one’s losses is understandable. This may be done by filing a birth injury claim in civil court — which may be resolved through negotiation or litigation.