Hydrocephalus InjurY Attorney in Atlanta

Is Your Child Suffering From Hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus is a condition that describes a buildup of excessive cerebrospinal fluid in the cranium. Sometimes this condition can be detectable in children shortly after childbirth, but other times, the effects of this condition are not apparent until the child is older and displays developmental issues. There are many different causes of hydrocephalus, and while some of them are due to prenatal conditions and predispositions, the negligence of medical professionals treating you and your child during the childbirth process can also be a contributing factor.

Symptoms & Effects of Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is most easily determined in newborns and infants when a swelling of the head occurs. This swelling is due an inability of the separate bones in the child's skull to properly form together due to the excess fluid. The swelling, along with abnormal skull shapes, and visible, enlarged veins, are the earliest indications of hydrocephalus.

When left untreated, or detected later in life, hydrocephalus can manifest in a number of different ways. Some of these are obvious, physical effects, while others are more subtle, developmental indicators.

Effects of untreated hydrocephalus can include:

• Seizures
• Fatigue
• Chronic headaches
• Coordination and motor issues
• Stunted growth
• Various behavioral fluctuations
• Memory problems
• Abnormal cranial and facial development

Hydrocephalus & Negligence

Hydrocephalus has various causes. Genetic determinations, infections, and tumors have all been identified as contributors to this condition, as well as childbirth injury caused by doctors. This is especially true for premature babies. Even when causes are not due to medical negligence, there are very stringent testing and diagnostic standards to adhere to when a risk of hydrocephalus is suspected. Any lack of vigilance by medical professionals in these cases can lead to serious complications, corrective surgeries, and irreparable damage to your child's development.

If you believe your child's hydrocephalus was caused or neglected by medical professionals, then it may be time to seek legal counsel. At Goldstein Hayes & Lina, LLC, our dedicated advocacy on behalf of families suffering from childbirth injuries has recovered more than $400 Million in restitution.

Call us today to explore your legal options with our Atlanta personal injury attorney.