Signs & Symptoms of Birth Injuries

If you are a parent of a child exhibiting possible symptoms of a birth injury, we understand how scary this may be for you. If you have any concerns about your child’s health, your first step is to see a medical professional immediately. No amount of words online will substitute for the guidance of a trusted medical professional.

As we review the signs and symptoms of the most common birth injuries that can occur, we encourage you to consider contacting an attorney for help. A birth injury lawyer in Houston can help examine your case and determine the best steps moving forward for your situation.

Common Birth Injuries and Their Symptoms

Birth injuries can manifest in various ways, depending on the type and severity of the injury. While some symptoms are immediately apparent, others may not become noticeable until days, weeks, or even months after birth. It is important to monitor your child’s development closely and talk to a healthcare professional if you notice any concerning signs.

1. Cerebral Palsy

Overview: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that affects movement, muscle tone, and posture. It is often caused by brain damage that occurs before, during, or shortly after birth. This damage may result from a lack of oxygen (hypoxia), infections, or traumatic injuries during delivery. When caused by negligence, a cerebral palsy lawsuit in Houston may be filed.

Symptoms to Watch For:

• Delayed motor development. Babies with cerebral palsy may have delayed milestones, such as rolling over, sitting up, crawling, or walking.
• Muscle stiffness or floppiness. Abnormal muscle tone is a common sign, with some children exhibiting stiff, rigid muscles (hypertonia) and others having very loose, floppy muscles (hypotonia).
• Poor coordination and balance. Children with CP may have difficulty with coordination, leading to unsteady movements or difficulty grasping objects.
• Involuntary movements. Uncontrollable movements, tremors, or exaggerated reflexes may be noticeable, particularly in cases of spastic cerebral palsy.

2. Brachial Plexus Injuries (Erb’s Palsy and Klumpke’s Palsy)

Overview: Brachial plexus injuries occur when the network of nerves controlling the shoulder, arm, and hand is stretched or torn during delivery. This can happen if the baby’s shoulders become stuck in the birth canal or if excessive force is used during delivery.

Symptoms to Watch For:

• Weakness or paralysis in the arm. One of the most apparent signs is a lack of movement in one arm. The baby may seem unable to lift or move the affected arm.
• Lack of grip strength. The affected hand may have reduced grip strength or appear limp.
• Limited range of motion. The child may have difficulty moving their arm or hand through a full range of motion, particularly raising their arm.
• Abnormal positioning of the arm. The arm may rest in an unusual position, such as hanging limply by the side or bent inward toward the body.

3. Facial Nerve Injuries

Overview: Facial nerve injuries, also known as facial nerve palsy, can occur during delivery, particularly if forceps are used or if there is excessive pressure on the baby’s face. These injuries affect the facial muscles and can cause partial or complete paralysis of the face.

Symptoms to Watch For:

• Asymmetry when crying. One side of the face may not move or may droop when the baby cries, resulting in an uneven or lopsided expression.
• Inability to close one eye. The baby may have difficulty closing one eye or may blink less frequently on one side.
• Lack of facial movement. The affected side of the face may show little to no movement, particularly around the mouth and eyes.

4. Fractures

Overview: Fractures, particularly of the clavicle (collarbone), are relatively common birth injuries, especially in cases of difficult or breech deliveries. While most fractures heal on their own, they can cause significant discomfort and require medical attention.

Symptoms to Watch For:

• Pain or discomfort when moving. The baby may cry or show signs of pain when the affected area is touched or moved.
• Swelling or bruising. Visible swelling, bruising, or redness over the fracture site may be present.
• Limited arm movement. The baby may avoid moving the arm on the side of the fracture or may appear to favor one side.

5. Intracranial Hemorrhage (Brain Bleeding)

Overview: Intracranial hemorrhage refers to bleeding within the brain and is a serious birth injury that can result from trauma during delivery or complications such as oxygen deprivation. It can lead to severe neurological impairments or developmental delays.

Symptoms to Watch For:

• Seizures. Seizures in newborns are often a sign of brain injury and require immediate medical attention.
• Lethargy or poor feeding. A baby with a brain injury may be unusually sleepy, difficult to wake, or may have difficulty feeding.
• Abnormal breathing patterns. Irregular breathing, apnea (pauses in breathing), or difficulty breathing may indicate a brain injury.
• Bulging fontanel (soft spot). A tense or bulging fontanel on the baby’s head may be a sign of increased intracranial pressure due to bleeding.