Developmental Disabilities

Summary

This article discusses developmental disabilities in general. It defines developmental disabilities and the possible risks that can occur to individuals diagnosed with a developmental disability. It lists the types, causes, long-term effects, and treatments.

Developmental Disabilities

A developmental disability is a term used to describe lifelong birth defects that can vary from intellectual disabilities or various physical impairments. Most developmental disabilities are contracted before the age of 18 and can affect how a body part or system functions. Unfortunately, most developmental disabilities have no cure, but in most cases the symptoms can be treated and controlled. While many developmental disabilities can be detected in a pre-natal screening, there are doctors who unfortunately miss the symptoms, or do not properly read tests and miss important diagnosis. In the Tempe, Mesa, Scottsdale and Phoenix area there are thousands of cases in which the parents were not informed of the possibility of their child being diagnosed with a developmental disability. This type of situation should never occur, and can be devastating to any family. If you suspect negligence on your doctor's part, then contacting an Arizona Personal Injury lawyer is your best option for compensation.

There are many different types of developmental disabilities, all of which can have a variety of different ailments and long term affects. Some examples of the types of developmental disabilities include:

Types of Developmental Disabilities

• Cerebral Palsy
• Down Syndrome
• Fragile X Syndrome
• Autism
• Rett Syndrome
• Hearing loss
• Epilepsy
• Dyslexia
• Scoliosis

Along with the different types of developmental disabilities, comes the various treatments, and medical care that you or a loved one will need. Many of these types of treatments can be extremely costly. A few examples include:

Treatments

• Physical therapy
• Medications
• Speech therapy
• Special Education needs
• Psychological counseling

Each type of developmental disability has different causes whether it is genetic or other. Some examples of the type of causes include:

Causes

• Brain injury that occurs before, during or after birth.
• Drug misuse during pregnancy
• Smoking during pregnancy
• Drinking during pregnancy
• Abnormalities in chromosomes and genes
• Growth or nutrition problems
• Poor diet and health care
• Premature labor

Along with the causes and the different types of developmental disabilities, the outcomes for these types of disabilities can be devastating. You and your loved one's life can be instantly changed forever. While each disability is unique, some of the possible long-term effects include:

Long-term Effects

• Short life expectancy
• High likelihood of encountering traumatic events in childhood like abandonment by family members, bullying, etc.
• Limited employment opportunities
• Obesity
• Poor dental health
• Poor communication
• Legal or service abuse
• Possible sexual or physical abuse if put in group home
• Challenging behavior

Contact an Arizona Personal Injury Attorney

When you or a loved one is diagnosed with a developmental disability, you may not be prepared to deal with all the emotional and financial demands it requires. If you suspect negligence from your doctor, then contacting an Arizona personal injury lawyer is your best option for compensation for your loved one's injury. For more information contact: www.solomonrelihan.com.