In a previous blog, we detailed the long-term effects of birth asphyxia, or oxygen deprivation, that occurs during labor and delivery. The longer oxygen deprivation lasts, and the more severe it is, babies are exposed to a number of increased risks. As such, it becomes critical that the treating medical professionals adequately monitor mothers and babies to identify potential complications. From there, they must also respond appropriately and in a timely manner when these issues arise.
Some of the increased risks include:
- Serious brain damage
- Life-altering conditions such as Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy
- Death
The Effects of Oxygen Deprivation On A Baby
At Beam Legal Team, our nationally recognized lawyers have handled many birth injury cases on behalf of families across the country. Many of these cases involved oxygen deprivation that led to varying degrees of damage and injury. One common and major side effect of lack of oxygen would be brain damage to the baby. In the most serious cases, victims were left with life-altering conditions or even died as a result of medical errors. This is because the potential for harm increases exponentially when oxygen deprivation is severe and when it persists for longer periods of time.
If your family is experiencing the effects of a child with birth asphyxia, we encourage you to contact our team at your earliest opportunity.
Time Frame for Oxygen Deprivation
Survival for babies that experience oxygen deprivation will range, as outcomes vary depending on how severe it is, how long it persists, and how quickly medical professionals can intervene. In general, a person can survive without oxygen to the brain for 5 to 10 minutes, here is a breakdown:
After 1 minute of oxygen deprivation, cells in the brain begin to die, but survival and recovery are possible, especially if appropriate treatment methods are taken.
After 3 minutes of oxygen deprivation, the brain is likely to experience serious damage.
After 10 minutes of lack of oxygen, brain damage is imminent, and death of many brain cells and poorer recovery prognoses will result.
After 15 minutes, brain damage is permanent and there is little possibility for recovery. Any time around this period without oxygen can also lead to death.
Any amount of time a baby experiences oxygen deprivation can cause harm, and resulting brain damage may vary depending on the unique facts involved. This includes whether or not medical professionals upheld their legal obligation to address complications in a timely and reasonable manner, such as performing:
- Emergency C-sections
- Head cooling
- Other risk-reducing or life-saving procedures
Get Legal Help with Your Child's Case
If your child suffered a brain injury at birth as a result of oxygen deprivation, or if death occurred, it is in your best interests to speak with an attorney about your legal rights and whether you may have a valid claim for compensation. As proven attorneys, our legal team can help you identify potential instances of medical malpractice, and guide you through your legal journey toward justice and fair compensation.
Contact Beam Legal Team to speak with a lawyer.