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What is hypoxic brain injury?

A hypoxic brain injury occurs when the brain is deprived of oxygen, causing brain cells to die. Oxygen is the brain’s essential fuel, delivered through the bloodstream. When the flow of oxygenated blood is restricted, reduced, or cut off, brain cells quickly begin to die. Unfortunately, once brain cells are lost, they cannot regenerate, leading to permanent brain damage.

Watch: "What is hypoxic brain injury" by De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

What are the Causes of Hypoxic Brain Injury?

Hypoxic brain injuries can result from medical emergencies and accidents, including:

  • Stroke: A sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain, depriving it of oxygen.
  • Heart attack: Insufficient oxygen delivery during cardiac arrest, especially if resuscitation is delayed.
  • Drowning: When breathing is obstructed, oxygen cannot reach the brain.
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning: A toxic buildup of carbon monoxide prevents oxygen from being delivered to the brain.

What are the Types of Hypoxic Brain Injury?

The severity and impact of a hypoxic brain injury depend on the amount of oxygen deprivation and the areas of the brain affected.

  • Localized brain injuries: Damage is limited to specific areas, leading to targeted impairments such as speech, movement, or memory difficulties.
  • Global brain injuries: Oxygen deprivation affects multiple parts of the brain, causing widespread damage with more severe consequences.

What is the Impact of Hypoxic Brain Injury?

When brain tissue is damaged due to hypoxia, the effects can be life-altering and may include:

  • Cognitive impairments: Memory loss or difficulty concentrating.
  • Physical disabilities: Coordination problems or muscle weakness.
  • Emotional and behavioral changes: Mood swings, anxiety, or depression.

How Can the Brain Injury Attorneys at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP Help After Hypoxic Brain Injury?

At De Caro & Kaplen, LLP, we understand the profound impact that hypoxic brain injuries can have on individuals and their families. Our skilled and experienced brain injury attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal and medical challenges associated with these injuries.

When you work with us, we will:

  • Investigate the cause of the injury, identifying negligence or failures in care.
  • Collaborate with medical experts to determine the extent of the damage and its impact on your life.
  • Advocate for full compensation, including medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Why Choose De Caro & Kaplen, LLP to Prosecute Your Hypoxic Brain Injury Case?

When you retain De Caro & Kaplen, you gain a team that is knowledgeable, compassionate, and committed to securing justice for brain injury victims. We work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and provide the support you need to rebuild your life.

Our law firm is recognized as Preferred Attorneys by The Brain Injury of America.


Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has suffered a hypoxic brain injury, don’t face the challenges alone. Contact De Caro & Kaplen, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We are dedicated to achieving justice and securing the compensation you deserve.

About The Author

Michael V. Kaplen

Michael V. Kaplen represents victims of vehicle collisions, unsafe buildings and construction sites, and medical malpractice, and is a preferred attorney of The Brain Injury Association of America.

Michael is board certified as a Civil Trial Advocate and board certified in medical malpractice litigation. He is a Professorial Lecturer in Law, The George Washington University Law School, The Legal Aspects of Traumatic Brain Injury.

Michael is past chairman of the American Association for Justice (AAJ) Automobile, Highway and Premise Liability Section, past chairman of the AAJ Traumatic Brain Injury Litigation Group, three term president of the Brain Injury Association of New York State served two terms as chair of the New York State Traumatic Brain Injury Services Coordinating Council and vice-president, New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers.

He was invited by President Obama to participate in the White House Healthy Kids & Safe Sports Concussion Summit.

He is admitted to courts in New York, Florida, and Washington, DC. He has been selected as a New York Super Lawyer and recognized by Best Lawyers of America and U.S. News and World Report in personal injury law.

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