Heart Birth Defects May Have Long Term Effects

A new study shows that children born with certain types of heart defects may experience problems later in life.

Researchers conducted a review of research from 1966 to 2011 of developmental disorders in children born with heart defects, according to WebMD Health News. They found that children born with heart defects or heart disease had an increased risk of disabilities, disorders, or developmental delays. They also found that these children are more likely to have behavior issues, difficulty in school, language or speech problems, and poor social skills due to a variety of developmental disorders affecting their brain function.

The results of this study prompted the American Heart Association to announce new recommendations for children born with heart defects. These include the following:

• Establishing a “medical home” to coordinate care between various specialists
• Periodic re-evaluation throughout infancy and childhood at 12 to 24 months, 3 to 5 years, and 11 to 12 years of age.
• Early intervention before a developmental disorder is diagnosed

If your child was born with a birth defect, contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if a birth injury lawyer may be able to help you.