Tricuspid atresia is a congenital birth defect characterized by the lack of a tricuspid valve between two of the heart’s chambers. Typically, a tricuspid valve acts as a gateway between chambers in the heart, but those suffering from tricuspid atresia have a solid mass of tissue that blocks blood flow between chambers. As a result, blood can not flow through the heart to the lungs. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, and treatments for tricuspid atresia.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with tricuspid 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 Tricuspid Atresia
Symptoms of tricuspid atresia typically develop within a week after birth and may include a bluish discoloration of the skin, dyspnea, tiring easily and slow growth. However, some babies may also develop symptoms of heart failure like fatigue, edema, ascites, sudden weight gain and an irregular heartbeat.
Causes of Tricuspid Atresia
For the most part, doctors agree that the specific causes of tricuspid 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 tricuspid 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 of Tricuspid Atresia
While the specific cause of tricuspid atresia remains unknown, there are several factors that may increase the risk of a baby being born with it:
- A mother taking antidepressants while pregnant may increase the risk of the child being born with a congenital birth defect
- A parent who has a congenital heart defect
- Excessively drinking alcohol during pregnancy
- A mother with poorly controlled diabetes
- Down syndrome
Complications of Tricuspid Atresia
Severe, life-threatening complications such as hypoxemia and polycythemia can be avoided with immediate treatment. However, there is a possibility that later in life the child will develop heart rhythm abnormalities and pulmonary embolisms.
Treatments for Tricuspid Atresia
Unfortunately there is currently no way to replace a defective tricuspid valve. Treatment for tricuspid atresia involves surgery to ensure adequate blood flow through the heart and into the lungs, allowing the baby’s body to receive the proper amount of oxygen-rich blood. Often, this requires more than one surgical procedure.
Do I have a Tricuspid 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 tricuspid atresia lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with tricuspid atresia after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-800-773-0849. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.