Philadelphia Facial Paralysis Lawyers
Damage to the facial nerve, also called the seventh cranial nerve, can cause palsy or paralysis in the facial muscles. Difficulty or trauma during childbirth is one of the leading causes of this kind of damage. Facial paralysis is sometimes a temporary condition, but not all of its sufferers are so lucky.
Sometimes there is evidence that a particular case of facial paralysis could have been avoided if medical workers had taken more thorough precautions. If this is true for your family, Philadelphia facial paralysis lawyers Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. may be able to help you seek justice through legal channels. Contact our offices at 215-238-1130.
Causes of Facial Paralysis
The exact cause of facial paralysis is not always known. This condition can develop during pregnancy, in which case it is not necessary preventable. However, there are certain birth conditions that have been linked to this kind of injury, such as:
- Long or difficult labors
- The use of certain drugs to induce birth
- Epidurals
- Vacuum deliveries or the use of forceps
These conditions are not necessary grounds for a lawsuit. It is necessary to show that they could have been prevented, and could have predictably caused facial paralysis. An experienced Philadelphia facial paralysis attorney can educate you about the legal process.
Symptoms and Treatment
Infants with facial nerve damage may display:
- Decreased muscle control on the affected half of the mouth
- Difficulty closing affected eyelid
- In extreme cases, the affected half of the face may be fully paralyzed
Some cases of facial paralysis will resolve on their own. However, others patients with this condition may require extensive physical therapy or even surgery.
Contact Us
If your child has suffered nerve damage due to medical negligence, we can help. To speak with a knowledgeable facial paralysis attorney, contact Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. at 215-238-1130.