Cerebral palsy is sometimes described as one particular condition and sometimes described as a group of conditions. It comes in several different forms, and each of its different incarnations presents its own difficulties. Dyskinetic cerebral palsy, ataxic cerebral palsy, and forms of cerebral palsy that involve the symptoms of multiple different types are all possible.
In many cases, cerebral palsy is caused when the infant’s brain is deprived of oxygen during the birth process. This type of birth injury can have devastating consequences for the infant. This injury can cause problems with hearing, walking, and is most commonly associated with difficulty controlling the muscles. One of the first symptoms that doctors and parents oftentimes notice is that the infant may seem overly rigid or to have unusually floppy muscles. This condition is not always noticed right away, and many parents find themselves in a situation where they wonder if there is something that happened during the birthing process that could have been avoided.
When doctors and hospitals fail to live up to the obligations they have to their patients, there is sometimes a chance that you could file a lawsuit to recover damages for your pain and suffering and for the medical expenses associated with this injury. This is not always the case, however. Cerebral palsy can occur in the womb and it can occur long after the child has been born, as well. Some aspects of this brain injury are poorly understood and it’s not always the case that it is the fault of the doctor or the hospital that was involved with the birthing process. Only a lawyer can make this determination insofar as is required to find out whether or not you have a case. Only a jury can determine whether or not you’re entitled to an award for your lawsuit.
Cerebral palsy is one of the most devastating birth conditions imaginable. It means, without a doubt, that the person affected is going to need a lifetime of care and that their life will be full of some significant challenges. If you think that the doctor, hospital, or nurses were somehow negligent in a way that resulted in your child developing this medical condition, you may wish to consider contacting an attorney. Check for one that offers a free consultation. This provides a no-risk way for you to determine whether or not you have a case that could win.