Transposition of the great arteries is a rare but serious congenital birth defect in which the hearts two main arteries are reversed. The transposition of these two arteries greatly affects the circulation of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. Without a sufficient supply of oxygen-rich blood, the body will not be able to function properly. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors and complications of transposition of the great arteries.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with transposition of the great arteries 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.
Transposition of the Great Arteries Signs & Symptoms
Typically the signs and symptoms of this congenital birth defect are detected immediately and may include:
- Bluish discoloration of the skin
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of appetite
- Poor weight gain
Causes of Transposition of the Great Arteries
Why this defect occurs during fetal growth in a baby’s heart is unknown in most cases. However, in July 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about congenital birth defect risks caused by using antidepressants during pregnancy. Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of transposition of the great arteries 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)
Transposition of the Great Arteries Risk Factors
For the most part, doctors agree that the specific causes of transposition of the great arteries in baby’s is unknown. However, many factors may heighten the risk of an infant being born with this condition, including:
- Antidepressants have been linked to an increase risk of transposition of the great arteries in children born to mothers who took them while pregnant.
- Viral illness in the mother during pregnancy
- A family history of congenital birth defects
- Poor nutrition during pregnancy
- Excessive alcohol consumption during pregnancy
Complications Associated with Transposition of the Great Arteries
The complications associated with transposition of the great arteries may be fatal in as little as six months after birth if not surgically corrected. These complications include:
- Lack of oxygen to tissues
- Heart failure
- Lung damage
For more information on the complications associated with transposition of the great arteries, please visit Mayoclinic.com.
Do I have a Transposition of the Great Arteries 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 transposition of the great arteries lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with transposition of the great arteries 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.