Neonatal Hypoxic Injury (Non-Asphyxia Related)

The first days of a baby’s life are a time when families rely heavily on medical professionals to provide careful monitoring and timely care. When a baby experience reduced oxygen levels for reasons unrelated to asphyxia, and concerns are not identified or acted upon as quickly as they should be, the consequences can be distressing and long lasting. Families in this situation often seek reassurance by understanding what happened and whether the care provided met the standards they were entitled to expect.

At Macks Solicitors, our specialist medical negligence team supports families with sensitivity, clarity, and care throughout the claims process.

Free Initial Discussion

For no-obligation advice and information, call our specialist medical negligence solicitors today on 01642 843 671 or use our contact form and we will call you back.

What Is a Neonatal Hypoxic Injury?

A neonatal injury happens when a newborn baby’s brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen. In non-asphyxia related cases, this reduced oxygen supply is not caused by problems during the delivery itself, but may arise from other medical issues before, during, or shortly after birth.

Even short periods of reduced oxygen can affect brain function and may lead to developmental delays, learning difficulties, or long-term neurological conditions.

Common Causes of Non-Asphyxia Related Hypoxic Injury

Non asphyxia neonatal hypoxic injuries may be linked to issues such as:

• Failure to recognise or treat infection or sepsis
• Low blood pressure or poor circulation in the newborn
• Undiagnosed or poorly managed breathing problems
• Delays in resuscitation or neonatal care
• Medication errors affecting oxygen levels
• Failure to monitor vital signs after birth

Where these issues are not identified or managed promptly, a baby may be exposed to avoidable harm.

Signs and Effects of Neonatal Hypoxic Injury

The effects of a hypoxic injury can vary depending on the severity and duration of oxygen deprivation. Some babies may show symptoms shortly after birth, while in other cases the impact becomes clearer as the child grows and developmental milestones are assessed. Possible signs and long-term effects may include:

• Seizures
•  Feeding difficulties
• Low muscle tone
• Developmental delay
• Learning or behavioural difficulties
• Movement disorders
• Cerebral palsy in more serious cases

Families are often left with understandable questions about whether earlier recognition or different treatment could have made a difference. Our specialist medical negligence team is here to listen, provide guidance, and answer your questions. Call us today on 01642 843 671 or use our contact form and we will call you back.

When Can a Claim Be Considered?

A medical negligence claim may be considered if there are concerns that appropriate medical care was not provided. This may include situations where:

• Warning signs were missed or not acted upon
• Monitoring of the baby was inadequate
• There were delays in diagnosis or treatment
• Escalation to specialist neonatal care did not occur when required

A claim involves a careful review of medical records and independent expert evidence to determine whether the standard of care met what would reasonably have been expected.

What Can Compensation Cover?

Compensation is intended to provide practical and financial support for your child’s present and future needs. Depending on the circumstances, this may include:

• Pain, suffering and loss of amenity
• Ongoing medical treatment and therapy
• Specialist equipment or assistive technology
• Home adaptations
• Care and support costs
• Educational support
• Future financial security

Each claim is assessed individually to ensure that long term needs are properly considered.

What Is the Time Limit for Making a Claim?

In most medical negligence cases, the standard time limit is three years. For children, this three-year period does not begin until their 18th birthday. This means a claim can usually be brought at any time before they turn 21.

Although there is time to consider your options, it is always advisable to seek legal advice as early as possible so that evidence can be preserved.

How Can Macks Solicitors Help?

We understand that pursuing a claim can feel overwhelming, particularly while caring for a child with additional needs. Our specialist team will:

• Listen carefully to your concerns
• Obtain and review medical records
• Work with independent medical experts
• Explain the process clearly and honestly
• Handle your case with discretion and compassion

Our aim is to help families gain clarity, accountability, and access to the support their child may need.

Contact us For more information about making a neonatal hypoxic injury claim, you can call us on 01642 843 667; alternatively, complete our online contact form and one of our solicitors will be in touch.