Facial Paralysis Birth Injuries
Giving birth to a child can be exciting but it is not always an easy experience. Lots of issues can occur during labor and delivery. If labor progresses for too long, the doctor may have to use force to get the baby to come out of the birth canal. This may include vacuum suction or forceps.
When too much force is used, the baby may suffer birth injuries. Too much pressure on the facial nerve, which controls facial movement, can cause paralysis, or facial nerve palsy. A large baby size or long labor can increase the risk of facial paralysis. This injury can range from mild and temporary to severe and permanent, depending on the extent of the nerve damage.
Facial paralysis can result from:
- Temporary nerve compression. This is the most common case. It often resolves within weeks or months.
- Partial nerve damage. This may require therapy or medical intervention.
- Complete nerve transection. This is rare but severe. It may require surgery and can cause lifelong impairment.
Signs and Symptoms
Facial paralysis is usually noticeable right after birth. Common symptoms include the following:
- Inability to move one side of the face
- Uneven facial expressions (one side droops)
- Incomplete closure of one eye
- Drooling or difficulty feeding
- Flattened facial appearance on one side
- Lack of facial muscle tone
These symptoms typically worsen when the baby cries.
Diagnosis
Doctors may perform:
- A physical exam to check facial movement.
- Neurological testing.
- Imaging (MRI or CT) if severe damage is suspected.
Early diagnosis ensures faster and more effective treatment.
Long-Term Effects
While many infants recover fully, severe cases may lead to:
- Persistent facial asymmetry.
- Difficulty blinking or closing the eye.
- Speech delays.
- Eating or drooling problems.
- Social or developmental challenges.
Early intervention improves chances of recovery.
When Medical Negligence May Be Involved
A facial paralysis birth injury may involve malpractice if:
- Forceps or vacuum tools were used improperly.
- The provider applied excessive pressure during delivery.
- Warning signs of fetal distress or delivery complications were ignored.
- A C-section should have been performed but was delayed or not offered.
- Prenatal risk factors were not monitored appropriately.
Parents may be able to pursue compensation for medical costs, therapy, long-term care, and more. They should:
- Ask for a detailed evaluation from a pediatric neurologist.
- Document symptoms and take photos or videos.
- Get copies of medical records from pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
- Seek a second opinion if symptoms persist or worsen.
- Consult a birth injury attorney if negligence is suspected.
Contact Us Today
Labor and delivery can lead to serious birth injuries if the doctor is negligent. If your baby has been affected, you need to understand your legal options.
Birth injuries can have long-term effects. A Mt. Juliet birth injury lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC can help you file a claim. We are committed to holding medical professionals accountable and seeking the compensation your family deserves. Fill out the online form or call (615) 622-6060 to schedule a consultation.
Source:
medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001425.htm
