Hydrocephalus Lawsuits In Illinois

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Hydrocephalus is a serious condition that can happen in infants and is sometimes linked to problems during pregnancy, labor, or delivery. It is often called “water on the brain” because hydrocephalus occurs when fluid builds up inside the brain. This fluid is supposed to protect and cushion the brain, but when too much collects, it creates pressure that can damage brain tissue.

In infants, hydrocephalus can show up in different ways. A baby’s head may grow faster than normal or appear unusually large. Other signs can include vomiting, trouble feeding, extreme sleepiness, or delays in reaching basic milestones like rolling over or sitting up. The pressure on the brain can lead to long-term problems with learning, movement, and overall development if it isn’t treated properly.

Doctors and nurses are trained to watch for warning signs during pregnancy and delivery. It is quite literally their job. If a baby is not getting enough oxygen, or if there are signs of distress during labor, the medical team is expected to act quickly. Delays in performing a C-section, not properly monitoring the baby, or not treating infections in the mother or newborn can lead to serious complications. In some cases, not using delivery tools properly can cause bleeding in the brain, which may later lead to hydrocephalus.

For families, the effects of hydrocephalus can be long-lasting and devastating. Many children need surgery to place a shunt, which is a small tube that helps drain the extra fluid from the brain. While shunts can be life-saving, they are not perfect. They can become blocked or infected, which may require additional surgeries over time.

Children with hydrocephalus may also need ongoing care. This can include physical therapy to help with movement, occupational therapy to improve daily skills, and sometimes speech therapy. Some children will need extra help in school or special education services. Others may have ongoing medical issues, such as seizures or coordination problems.

The cost of this kind of care can add up quickly. Hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, and therapy sessions can be expensive. There may also be costs for medical equipment, home adjustments, and long-term support as the child grows older. For some families, one parent may need to cut back on work or stop working altogether to care for the child.

If you believe your child’s hydrocephalus may be connected to a problem during pregnancy or delivery, it is critical to connect with an attorney who handles birth injury cases in Illinois. An attorney can help gather and review records, work with medical professionals, and determine if the doctors and nurses make a mistake. If they did, a legal claim can help cover the costs of medical care, therapy, and support that your child may need over time. In serious cases, a medical malpractice lawsuit for not properly diagnosing or treating hydrocephalus can be worth tens of millions of dollars.

Contact us for a free consultation with an attorney any time at 312-346-5320. Every attorney we recommend is experienced and has a track record of success with brain injuries and malpractice lawsuits. It is important to act fast. In some cases based on the age of the victim or who the medical provider is, there is only two years from the malpractice date to sue.