Many Houston residents know someone who has been affected by a brain injury. Brain injuries often are serious and can causing a lifetime of complications. Brain hypoxia is one brain injury that can be very serious and may cause permanent damage to the brain.
Brain hypoxia happens when there is insufficient oxygen levels to the brain. When the brain doesn’t receive an adequate supply of oxygen, a number of serious conditions can result. Hypoxia can be caused by a person having a stroke, heart attack, anesthesia complications, hypotension, choking, strangulation and other instances. Patients who have brain hypoxia can be diagnosed by a blood test that shows oxygen levels in the blood. A CT scan or MRI or other tests may also be used.
People who have suffered brain hypoxia can have a range of medical outcomes. Generally the longer their brain went without oxygen, the more serious conditions they can have. People who suffer from brain hypoxia can have insomnia, hallucinations, short term memory loss and muscle spasm. More severe conditions can include an inability to do common tasks, poor impulse control, coma and death.
When brain hypoxia is due to a medical error it is important to hold medical professionals accountable. Because of the long term effects that brain hypoxia can have for patients, it can require vast resources for families. A legal professional skilled in medical malpractice can help a family determine what caused their loved one’s injury and who should be held accountable. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, future medical expenses, loss of wages and other damages.
Source: healthline.com, “Brain hypoxia“, accessed on Aug. 30, 2015