Loss of oxygen to vital organs can be caused during many situations, including at birth and during other organ complications. Diminished oxygen supply to organs is also known as hypoxia or anoxia. If you or someone you know has experienced hypoxia as a result of medical error, an attorney may be able to help you recover money for your losses.
Hypoxia / Anoxia at Birth
Birth is a common time for all kinds of complications, including anoxia. Premature babies are at a higher risk for complications such as hypoxia. Pregnant women should be cautiously monitored at the first signs of labor and other signs of early birth. If carefully monitored, many problems can be avoided.
When oxygen deprivation occurs during birth, it can result in many problems, including but not limited to:
- Death;
- Blindness;
- Mental delay;
- Cerebral palsy; and
- Physical disability.
Oxygen supply interruption may occur because of:
- Umbilical cord position;
- Drop in blood pressure or lowered heart rate during delivery;
- Blood loss caused by placenta or uterus ruptures; or
- Other complications.
Hypoxia / Anoxia in Adults
Oxygen deprivation also impacts adults. Because damage can occur so rapidly as a result of diminished oxygen supply to organs such as the brain and the heart, it is important for medical staff to carefully monitor all patients, especially in the following situations:
- Cases of heart attack and reduced heart rate, where blood flow is interrupted or restricted, depriving the organs of oxygen. Careful diagnosis and monitoring can help prevent potential problems including damage to organs.
- Cases of severe bleeding, including internal bleeding during surgery, can cause drops in blood pressure and decreased flow of blood to the brain. Permanent damage may result if bleeding is not properly detected and monitored.
- Anesthesia errors, including overdose and improper patient monitoring of respiration and heart rate are potential issues.
- Anytime the body is going through severe trauma, a patient should be carefully monitored to prevent unnecessary injury. Diagnosing patients properly and monitoring is an integral part of proper medical care.
Getting Legal Help
If you or a loved one has experienced damage from loss of oxygen to organs, and you feel that it occurred due to professional negligence, contact a medical malpractice attorney. Because medical malpractice cases usually have a limited filing period, it is important to get help early. An attorney will advise you of your options, rights and advocate on your behalf.
