Cerebral palsy happens when a baby’s brain is damaged before, during, or soon after birth. It affects movement, muscle tone, and coordination. Some cases cannot be prevented. However, some are the result of medical mistakes made during labor or delivery. If your child suffered a birth injury, Schaumburg, IL medical malpractice lawyers can help. We will find out if a doctor or hospital error caused it and what legal steps you can take to protect your family.
What Happens When a Baby Loses Oxygen During Birth?
Oxygen is vital for every organ in a baby’s body, especially the brain. When the oxygen level drops too low, brain cells start to die in minutes. Doctors call this hypoxia when there is not enough oxygen and anoxia when there is no oxygen at all. One serious result of oxygen loss is hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). This condition happens when the brain does not get enough blood or oxygen, and it can lead to cerebral palsy.