What is Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome?

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a complicated and uncommon heart defect present at birth (congenital). In hypoplastic left heart syndrome, the left portion of the heart is dangerously underdeveloped.

If a baby is born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, the left portion of the heart cannot efficiently propel blood to the body, consequently the right portion of the heart is required to propel blood to the lungs and to the remainder of the body.

Children suffering from hypoplastic left heart syndrome must take medication in order to stop the closure of the connection of the left and right sides of the heart. In addition to the medication, either surgery or a heart transplant will be necessary. In many cases, hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) has been traced to the use of SSRI antidepressants such as Zoloft, Prozac, Paxil, Lexapro, or Celexa by the mother during all or part of the pregnancy. If you took Zoloft, Prozac, Paxil, Lexapro, or Celexa during pregnancy and your child was born with a congenital heart defect like hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) you and your child might have a legal right to monetary compensation through a SSRI antidepressant lawsuit.

Symptoms of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS)

Babies who are born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome typically are severely ill instantly after being born. Hypoplastic left heart syndrome symptoms may include some of the following:

• Bluish-gray skin color
• Hasty, labored breathing
• Inadequate feeding
• Cold hands and feet
• Being unusually inactive or drowsy

According to medical authorities a baby born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, once the natural connections between the heart’s left and right sides are allowed to close, may go into shock and could die. Signs of shock may include some or all of the following:

• Clammy skin that may be pale or gray
• A weak and rapid pulse
• Abnormal breathing that may be either slow and shallow or very rapid
• Dilated pupils
• Lackluster eyes that seem to stare

Without surgery, babies with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) may die within a few weeks. With surgery most infants survive hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), but most infants will have some or all of the following complications later in life:

• Developmental problems related to the brain and nervous system
• Tiring especially easily while participating in exercise
• Need for additional heart surgery or transplantation
• Heart rhythm abnormalities
• Formation of blood clots that may lead to a pulmonary embolism or stroke
• Fluid buildup in the lungs, abdomen, legs and feet

Causes of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) – Antidepressant Use While Pregnant

Heart defects present at birth (congenital heart defects) are a result of errors early in the heart’s development, but it is often hard to determine the exact cause. The use of antidepressants such as Zoloft, Paxil, Prozac, Celexa, or Lexapro during all or part of the pregnancy doubles the risk of a congenital heart defect like hypoplastic left heart syndrome.

Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) – Lawsuit

If your child was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome or other congenital heart defects and a SSRI such as Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro, Paxil or Celexa was taken during all or part of the pregnancy, then call now for a free SSRI Antidepressant Lawsuit Consultation. You and your child may have a legal right to monetary compensation for damages and injuries. Fill out the form to the right or call 1-800-883-9858 for your free legal consultation.