Delayed Diagnosis

Shea Law Group Has Been a Family Owned Practice Since 1997

Birth injuries sometimes result from ailments or medical conditions that should have been treated in a timely manner, but were not or due to medical malpractices. Depending on the problem, the proper medical protocol should be followed and the recommended treatment administered during pregnancy, labor, and/or delivery-eliminating unnecessary danger to both you and your unborn baby. It is up to your doctor to recognize such problems and take steps to rectify them before severe injury occurs.

If a mother is showing signs of pregnancy complications prior to reaching full term, it is her physician’s responsibility to identify the problem, perform tests to confirm if necessary, and treat accordingly. If a doctor fails to treat preterm medical conditions, preexisting or developing, he or she is responsible for any resulting complications and/or birth injuries.

Another situation in which a doctor could be negligent is during the delivery. When a woman gives birth, there are a number of things, including the vital signs of both mother and child, that must be monitored to be certain both remain healthy throughout the procedure. If medical warning signs are neglected, like irregular heart patterns, and the mother or child suffers injury or illness due to this negligence, the medical professionals present are liable.

The Foundation of Legal Action

Often delivery complications are the result of a previously undiagnosed problem, such as preeclampsia, that went undiagnosed and untreated by a doctor. Sometimes the issues do not become apparent, even to medical professionals, until labor begins. One such problem might be birth asphyxia, or oxygen deprivation.

A baby’s heart monitor will bring attention to this problem by displaying signs of fetal distress, such as an irregular heartbeat. The issue of oxygen deprivation during delivery can be caused by medical conditions which affect the umbilical cord, and a C-section may be mandatory to protect the baby from permanent injury.

The position of the baby in the birth canal must also be monitored closely to ensure the infant is prepared for a safe delivery. If this goes unchecked, and the baby is not positioned correctly, severe injuries may occur.

The Signs

Low APGAR scores or physical impairments may be the first signs of brain damage caused by a preventable birth injury. Sometimes seizures, physical abnormalities regarding the shape, size. or color of the baby’s head, or slow development can be indications of early-onset health issues. Cerebral palsy is an example of a life-altering condition resulting from a preventable birth injury.

If your doctor was negligent in your personal care, pregnancy care, ignored signs which indicated a medical issue, or performed your delivery without properly monitoring your own or your baby’s vital signs, you may be entitled to compensation. The medical professionals involved are directly responsible for your child’s physical and mental health.

Dealing With the Aftermath

Medical expenses and emotional distress caused by permanent birth injury to a child are taxing on a family. If you or a loved one believes that your child’s medical issues were caused by a doctor or hospital staff’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. This is where our Chicago medical malpractice attorney comes in.

Contact Shea Law Group and we will help you attain the justice you deserve, and the money you need to take care of your family. We have extensive experience when it comes to delayed diagnoses birth injury cases. There is no fee unless we win your case. Call now and receive a free initial consultation.

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Our representation costs nothing until you recover compensation for your injuries. Please call us at 773-365-0040 or contact us online for a consultation to discuss your personal injury case.

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    "My Experience with Shea Law Group was excellent. Joseph Patrick Shea gave my case all the attention that was needed to be successful, the rapport and guidance was outstanding at all times, prompt, timely and open for calls and quick updates. Highly recommend their services, simply very professional from start to finish, also the whole legal team was very responsive, professional and empathic, thank you for your hard work, I couldn’t have asked for a better firm. Thank you again SHEA LAW GROUP." - Anna A.

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