According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one in every 36 children has some degree of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While the exact cause of autism is still unknown, some external factors, including birth injuries, may increase the risk of a child being diagnosed with autism at a later age. The Pennsylvania birth injury attorneys at Latona Law want you to fully understand the potential link between birth injuries and later autism diagnoses.
Birth Injuries May Increase the Risk of an ASD Diagnosis
According to a study conducted in 2011, evidence suggests a link between birth injuries and an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder. However, it’s important to note that birth injuries and general trauma typically do not cause autism. They can, however, impact a child’s development which may lead to a diagnosis.
That said, birth injuries can lead to brain damage, which may cause a child to develop conditions like cerebral palsy as well as other conditions that impact the development of the child’s brain and motor skills. Some of these conditions may mimic symptoms commonly associated with ASD, leading to an incorrect diagnosis.
The Common Complications Linked to Autism Development
Though birth injuries may not directly cause autism, certain injuries have been linked to an increased risk of ASD diagnosis later on. These include but are not limited to the following:
- Advanced parental age
- Birth asphyxia
- Certain medications taken during pregnancy
- Fetal dystocia
- Maternal diabetes
- Maternal obesity
- Placental abruption
- Preeclampsia
- Transverse or breech fetal positions at delivery
If you believe your child has autism or another condition related to a birth injury, the best thing you can do is speak with their pediatrician and ask for guidance. They may be able to refer you to a specialist who can accurately diagnose your child’s condition and help you figure out the best next steps to give them the best life possible.
And regardless of the type of birth injury your child suffered, it’s worth consulting with a Pennsylvania birth injury lawyer. They’ll be able to review your case and help you decide if filing a claim against the hospital and the medical professionals responsible is in your best interest.
The Cause of Autism Is Still Unknown
It’s important to note that the exact cause of autism is still unknown. However, some research suggests that genetic factors as well as environmental factors could increase the chances of a child developing autism. And while it may seem like autism diagnoses are on the rise, that increase does not necessarily mean that more children are developing autism than were previously. Instead, it’s more likely that advancements in medicine and early detection methods have made it easier for doctors to diagnose autism that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Birth Injuries Can Cause Other Injuries and Developmental Conditions
Though an autism diagnosis can be scary to navigate, it’s worth noting that birth injuries can cause other developmental conditions. Many of those conditions can be life-altering and expensive for parents to manage. Some common conditions include:
- Cerebral palsy: This condition impacts the development of the child’s brain and limits their ability to develop fine motor skills, stunts their intellect, and makes it difficult for them to live a normal life.
- Hydrocephalus: This condition causes a buildup of fluid in the brain cavity. It can impact a child’s IQ and may cause developmental delays that prevent them from keeping up with their peers.
- HIE: Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy is a type of brain injury caused by a lack of oxygen reaching the child’s brain during birth. It can cause damage to their internal organs and may increase the risk of attention deficit and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders.
If your child suffered a birth injury, contact a Pennsylvania birth injury attorney.
Don’t Give up Hope
Even minor birth injuries can result in costly medical bills and ongoing expenses as your child grows. If your child was injured at birth, you may be able to file a lawsuit against those responsible. Contact the Pennsylvania birth injury attorneys at Latona Law today to schedule a free consultation.