Pulmonary Atresia (PA) is a congenital birth defect characterized by an improperly formed pulmonary valve. As a result, a solid mass of tissue forms where the valve opening should be, causing the valve to remain closed. This defect inhibits blood from traveling to the lungs to pick up the oxygen it needs to dispense throughout the body. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, tests and diagnosis for pulmonary atresia.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pulmonary atresia after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Signs & Symptoms of Pulmonary Atresia
Symptoms typically occur immediately after birth and include:
- Bluish discoloration of the skin
- Fast breathing
- Fatigue
- Poor eating habits
- Shortness of breath
Causes of Pulmonary Atresia
For the most part, doctors agree that the specific causes of pulmonary atresia in children remain unknown. However, in July 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the heart defects risk caused by using antidepressants during pregnancy. Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of pulmonary atresia in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy. The following is a list of antidepressant medications that have been linked to this type of birth defect:
- Paroxetine
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Celexa (Citalopram)
- Prozac (Fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Fluvoxamine
- Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
- Bupropion
- Effexor (Venlafaxine)
Risk Factors Associated with Pulmonary Atresia
It is a general consensus that the specific cause of pulmonary atresia is unknown. However, the following risk factors may increase the risk of an infant contracting this condition:
- The use of antidepressant drugs by the mother during pregnancy
- Excess consumption of alcohol during pregnancy
- Poor nutrition
- A parent with a congenital birth defect
Pulmonary Atresia Complications
- Delayed growth and development
- Seizures
- Stroke
- Infectious endocarditis
- Heart failure
- Death
Pulmonary Atresia Tests & Diagnosis
Pulmonary atresia can be detected with the use of a stethoscope by listening for heart murmurs. Further tests are needed to actually diagnose PA, but include the following:
- Chest X-ray
- Echocardiogram
- Electrocardiogram
- Heart catheterization
- Pulse oximetry
Do I have a Pulmonary Atresia Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in pulmonary atresia lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pulmonary atresia after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.