HIE and baby head size, what might this tell us? To put the question another way, what can a baby’s head circumference possibly tell us about when the brain injury possible occurred? For some families, the question of what caused their baby’s brain injury is important. In addition to that, another question which can follow is when did the injury happen?
For today’s educational talk we will explore the title above, HIE and baby head size. Please remember that the information discussed today is general in nature and that for answers to your specific questions on the topic would be best served through a birth injury investigation.
What Is Microcephaly?
Microcephaly, in the most basic explanation in our context is when a baby’s head is smaller than expected. When a baby is developing during pregnancy as the brain grows so does the head. Although an injury to the brain can impact head size, the following can be possible risk factors for microcephaly:
*infections during pregnancy
*reductions in blood and oxygen supply
*malnutrition
*drug, alcohol, and other toxic chemical use
According to information from the Centers For Disease Control And Prevention (CDC), 1 in every 800-5,000 babies born will be impacted by microcephaly. These babies might have the following challenges:
*seizures
*developmental delays
*problems with movement and balance
*feeding problems
*hearing loss
*vision problems
HIE And Baby Head Size
HIE, or hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy is a medical condition which entails a reduced level of blood and oxygen which can lead to a brain injury. When the brain is injured, it can impact growth. As I mentioned above, parents can sometime wonder when did the brain injury happen. This can be important, especially when the parents have medical legal questions and are looking for a birth injury investigation.
If a baby’s brain is injured or damaged during pregnancy, then the brain will generally slowdown in growth. As a result, the baby’s head circumference will be smaller at birth because the head grows to accommodate the brain.
On the other hand, if the baby’s head circumference is “normal” at birth, yet there is an HIE diagnosis, a strong argument can be made that the brain was not injured during pregnancy, but at some time during the labor and delivery process. This can be reinforced if the baby’s head size begins to get smaller around the 4 to 6 month mark, or baby wellness checkup. The brain has been injured and head growth has slowed subsequently.
If you have more questions about HIE and baby head size my contact information is down below. Pick up the phone and call me. I talk with families all the time about these issues and I will be happy to listen to your baby’s story.
Marcus B. Boston, Esq.
2 Wisconsin Circle, Suite 700
Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815
1-833-4 BABY HELP
