Infants often suffer from birth injuries that are not diagnosed at the time of birth. A baby may be suffering from cerebral palsy due to a birth injury, but the condition may not be diagnosed until later. Frequently, problems with movement are the first sign of cerebral palsy.
Cerebral palsy is thought to be caused by lack of oxygen to the brain during childbirth and it is one of the most serious health problems that can result from a birth injury. The condition can have a life-long effect on the child.
Movement problems that may indicate cerebral palsy include a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. A child may exhibit a lack of muscle coordination, exaggerated reflexes or stiff muscles. The child may have trouble walking, tending to drag one foot or the other. There may be variations in muscle tone, from too floppy to too stiff. A baby may exhibit difficulty speaking, sucking or swallowing, and may have excessive drooling. Tremors or difficulty with fine motor movements may be noticeable.
There are different types of cerebral palsy. The most common is spastic cerebral palsy, which is characterized by difficulty moving and stiffness. Athetoid cerebral palsy is characterized by slurred speech, involuntary movement and inability to maintain posture. Ataxic cerebral palsy is characterized by a distorted sense of balance, depth perception problems and difficulty with coordination.
If you believe your child may suffer from cerebral palsy as the result of a birth injury, it is important to talk to your doctor. If such a diagnosis is obtained, call Briskman Briskman & Greenberg to discuss whether you might be entitled to compensation.
Paul Greenberg is a Chicago birth injury attorney with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. To learn more call 1.877.595.4878 or visit http://www.briskmanandbriskman.com/.
