What Causes Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy?
The term, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, is used to describe any injury that occurs as a result of low oxygen. It can occur when an adequate supply of blood is unable to reach the brain, therefore depriving the brain of needed oxygen. When there is a lack of oxygen to the brain, significant damage can be done to the brain tissue. During the labor and delivery process, there are many factors that can lead to hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. Some of these factors include the following: • Prolonged birth • Delayed C-Section • Too long in birth canal • Prolapsed umbilical cord • Fetal heartbeat misread or misinterpreted • Doctor didn’t act in a timely manner Any of these events can cause asphyxia or hypoxia, which are two types of oxygen depravation. Generally, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy can be quickly identified following the infant’s birth. If the infant experiences loss of brainstem signs, loss of deep tendon reflexes or seizures, or if the infant appears to be in a coma, the chi