Denver Bell's Palsy Medical Malpractice Attorneys
Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Denver Help Bell's Palsy Victims
The Denver Facial Paralysis Support Group offers emotional support and helpful resources for people struggling with Bell's Palsy and their loved ones.
The long-term consequences of Bell's Palsy may include permanent disfigurement and serious medical complications. If your child's Bell's Palsy was caused by birth injuries, you have the right to seek compensation to cover the cost of your medical bills and other expenses.
For over 40 years, the Denver personal injury attorneys at Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. have been assisting victims of medical malpractice and their families. We can review your case and go over your legal options.
The independent rating agency Super Lawyers recognizes Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. for providing outstanding service to our clients based on peer review and several other factors, and we have an AV Rating from Matindale-Hubbell. Our partner, Jim Puga, won one of the largest medical malpractice jury verdicts in the history of the state of Colorado, which was $17.9 million.
There is no charge for an initial consultation. Call Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. at (303) 759-9945 or toll-free at (877) 433-3906 to learn more today.
What Is Bell's Palsy?
Bell's Palsy is a medical condition that causes the sudden occurrence of weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. The onset of Bell's Palsy may be associated with events that include viral infections, trauma, or birth injuries. While the condition is often temporary, recovery time can vary, and some patients suffer long-term effects.
The facial nerve, also known as the seventh cranial nerve, plays an important role in controlling the muscles of facial expression. It also contributes to functions such as blinking, tearing, and certain aspects of taste and saliva production. The nerve travels through a narrow, bony canal in the skull, making it susceptible to pressure or injury. When the facial nerve is compromised through inflammation, trauma, or compression, it can lead to Bell's Palsy.
Signs of Bell's Palsy may appear suddenly. The onset of symptoms is often rapid. Key indicators include:
- Drooping mouth
- Difficulty with speaking and eating
- Difficulty closing the eye on the affected side
- Dryness and irritation in the affected eye
- Reduced or excessive tearing
- Reduced or excessive saliva production
- A loss of taste on the front two-thirds of the tongue
- Facial pain or discomfort
- Increased sensitivity to sound in one ear
- Headaches
How Birth Injuries Can Lead to Bell's Palsy
Birth injuries can lead to Bell's Palsy, and this often involves trauma to the facial nerve that occurs during delivery. This trauma disrupts the signals from the brain to the facial muscles, leading to the paralysis that's characteristic of Bell's Palsy.
One common cause is the improper use of delivery tools, such as forceps or vacuum extractors, which can exert excessive pressure on the baby's delicate facial structures. Prolonged or difficult labor can also contribute to nerve damage, especially if the baby experiences significant head compression in the birth canal. Conditions such as large birth weight or breech presentation may increase the risk of facial nerve injury.
Link Between Medical Malpractice and Birth Injuries
Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider's behavior deviates from the accepted standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient. This may involve improper birthing techniques that cause undue pressure on the baby's facial nerve.
Mismanagement of a difficult or prolonged labor can also contribute to facial nerve damage. Additional factors that may result in medical malpractice include delayed diagnosis of fetal distress, insufficient hospital protocols, and inadequate training of delivery room staff.
How Bell's Palsy Can Affect Your Child's Life
While many children with Bell's Palsy recover fully within three to six months, some may face complications that extend beyond this period. Possible complications include chronic facial weakness, involuntary facial movements (synkinesis), and persistent facial asymmetry. These issues can affect a child's ability to perform everyday activities such as eating, speaking, and smiling. In some cases, complications like corneal ulcers can develop due to the inability to close the eye properly, leading to further medical concerns.
The prognosis for Bell's Palsy largely depends on the severity of the nerve damage and the timeliness of treatment. Early intervention, including medical and physical therapies can improve outcomes. However, for those with lasting effects, ongoing medical care and surgical interventions may be required.
How Your Denver Bell's Palsy Medical Malpractice Attorney Can Help
Proving a breach of the standard of care involves showing that the healthcare provider failed to provide reasonable care under the circumstances. To establish this breach, Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. can conduct a thorough review to document the actions and decisions made by the medical team. Evidence such as monitoring data, procedural notes, and witness statements can further support the claim. Medical professionals provide input that plays an important role in this process.
Speak with Our Medical Malpractice Lawyers in Denver Today
At Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., we believe the person who hurt you should take accountability and pay for their negligent actions. That's why we've been getting justice for victims of medical malpractice since 1981. We understand that your case is important, and we always have time to speak with you about its progress.
Call our firm at (303) 759-9945 or toll-free at (877) 433-3906 to learn more today. Our Denver medical malpractice attorneys offer no charge for your initial consultation.
