Injuries

A few conditions where an infant is hearing impaired due to injuries or errors during the pregnancy or delivery have been identified. Although the majority of cases of a child being hearing impaired is traced back to congenital causes, about 45% of deafness are the result of accidents, injuries or illnesses during pregnancy or the birth process. An attorney who specializes in malpractice may be helpful in determining whether or the parents have a claim against the doctor or medical facility. A claim for financial compensation may make the difference between proper education and medical care for the child, so parents should not be reluctant to discuss the details with an attorney.

Hearing Impaired Condition Due to Maternal Illness

A hearing impaired child may be the result of the mother’s illness during pregnancy. Certain diseases in the mother are known to be the cause of the infant’s deafness. It is for this reason that women who are contemplating starting a family should be certain to have immunizations up to date. Since most people in the West are vaccinated as children, the likelihood of contracting one of the diseases related to hearing loss is less likely. In instances of deafness due to illness of the mother, there is less likelihood for the services of an attorney to be helpful. However, an attorney should be contacted if unusual causes for the maternal illness are present.

Hearing Impaired Condition Caused by Premature Birth

Premature birth is another major cause of a child being hearing impaired. In this instance, hearing loss may be accompanied by one or more other disabilities related to the child’s stage of development at birth. Legal issues can be addressed by an attorney qualified to deal with such cases. The costs of caring for and educating such a child can be devastating to the family. The advice of an attorney may be required to sort out both physical and financial issues.

Hearing Impaired Condition Due to a Birth Injury

Some birth injuries can cause a child to be hearing impaired, but the diagnosis of deafness may not be made for weeks or even months following birth. Deafness due to a birth injury such as improper use of forceps is uncommon. The usual manifestation of a birth injury is epilepsy, muscle control or nerve damage. The services of an attorney should be sought as soon as there is reason to believe that a child may have suffered a birth injury. The attorney can help the parents plan ahead for eventualities in the care and treatment of the child.

Hearing Impaired Condition Caused by Medication

The advice of an attorney may be needed if the individual becomes hearing impaired due to the effects of certain types of medication. The medications involved that are known to cause hearing problems are for serious illnesses such as tuberculosis, malaria and cancer. For the woman who may be pregnant, any drug prescription should be discussed with the medical professional. In that case of antibiotics taken before the pregnancy is realized, there may be no claim available. Again, the advice of an attorney should be sought for specific guidance.