A: HIE (hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy) can cause children to have autistic-like features, which can lead to a diagnosis of autism. Studies show a correlation between HIE and autism. HIE may increase a child’s risk of having neurodevelopmental disorders like attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
In this blog, we’ll break down the association between HIE and autism. We also provide resources for caregivers who need support while they navigate their child’s diagnoses.
Was your child diagnosed with HIE?
Jump to:
- What is HIE?
- What is autism?
- Can HIE cause autism?
- How do HIE and autism affect children?
- HIE and medical malpractice
- Resources for caregivers
- Get legal help
What is HIE?
HIE, or hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, is a brain injury that occurs when a baby doesn’t get enough oxygen during or around the time of birth. HIE is a specific type of neonatal encephalopathy, or brain dysfunction in newborn babies.
HIE causes permanent brain injury that can affect important regions of the brain, including the parts that control movement. Babies who suffer HIE often develop disabilities such as cerebral palsy, visual and hearing impairments, and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities. The extent of their disability depends on the severity and location of their injury.
In the United States, HIE occurs in about 1-3 babies per 1000 births.
Many pregnancy and delivery complications can cause HIE. A key part of preventing HIE is for medical staff to monitor the mother and baby closely. They must act quickly if the baby shows signs of distress or is not tolerating labor well.
What is autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts how people interact with and communicate with others. Autism exists on a spectrum, which is why it is called autism spectrum disorder. This means that not all autistic children behave or communicate in the same way, or to the same degree.
Autism usually manifests in childhood. Each child is unique and may display different characteristics. Some features of autism can include:
- Avoiding or having difficulty with making eye contact
- Not responding when their name is called
- Not responding to or showing interest in their caregivers
- Avoiding physical affection
- Issues with speech such as delayed speech, no speech at all, or speak using an uncommon tone or certain rhythm
- Making repetitive motions like flapping their hands or rocking back and forth
- Intense fixation on activities or objects
- Hypersensitivity to strong sensory situations, like loud noises, unusual food textures, or busy environments
Autistic features can be caused by brain injuries from HIE. It can create challenges for children trying to socialize with others. As they grow up, they may face difficulty at school, work, or in interpersonal relationships.
Can HIE cause autism?
Yes, brain injury from HIE can lead to autistic features and therefore a diagnosis of autism. However, there is no one single cause of autism. Some studies link it to a combination of factors, such as genetics, environmental factors, and HIE.
According to research, HIE can increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD. Babies who experience moderate to severe HIE are at a higher risk for autism, according to a study from 2020. Compared to the general population, babies with moderate and severe neonatal encephalopathy had more positive screenings for autism.
A previous study published in the Journal of Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology found that babies with neonatal encephalopathy were six times more likely to develop ASD. The researchers outlined that autism and HIE share similar risk factors, such as:
- Bleeding during pregnancy
- Infection
- Birth defects
- Postmaturity (babies born after 42 weeks, or their due date)
- Older maternal age (35 years or older)
- Abnormal fetal presentation (the baby is not in an ideal position for birth)
The link between HIE and neurodevelopmental outcomes is important for parents and clinicians to consider. This consideration is particularly important in creating treatment and long-term care plans for HIE-injured children.
How do HIE and autism affect children?
HIE is a brain injury that can lead to permanent disabilities that can affect a child’s movement, independence, learning skills, and overall long-term health. Autism is a condition that can create challenges for children interacting with others and their environment. Every child’s growth is unique. However, autism and HIE can impede a child’s development without the proper care, treatment, and support.
One study from 2018 evaluated children that survived HIE at birth, but did not develop cerebral palsy. They were not screened for autistic features. However, researchers found that 29% of children with mild HIE had issues with attention, memory, and executive functioning compared to the general population.
The study concluded: “Following HIE, children may experience attention, memory, and behavior difficulties which are not always evident at a young age.” These issues can contribute to issues with learning, socializing with peers, and more.
HIE and medical malpractice
Unfortunately, HIE can be the result of medical mistakes made during or shortly after labor and delivery. It may be considered medical malpractice if doctors or hospital staff fail to provide timely and appropriate treatment—such as therapeutic hypothermia (“cooling” therapy) —within the crucial window needed to minimize further brain injury.
For parents, discovering that a preventable error may have caused your child’s injury can be heartbreaking. It’s important to know that you have options. HIE lawyers advocate on behalf of children like yours and provide support to help you navigate this difficult time. Taking legal action can help you obtain the finances necessary to ensure your child receives lifetime care.
A successful case can help relieve the overwhelming financial burden that often comes with lifelong care, giving you peace of mind that you’re doing everything in your power to support your child. No legal outcome can erase the trauma of a birth injury. However, pursuing justice may offer a sense of closure during this incredibly difficult time.
If you’re wondering whether your family might have a birth injury case, we encourage you to contact us at ABC Law Centers for a free consultation. There are no fees unless we win or reach a favorable settlement—you’ll never pay out of pocket for pursuing your case.
Resources for parents and caregivers
If you have concerns or questions about your child’s development, share them with your child’s doctor. Make observations about patterns of your child’s behavior in regards to their style of learning, communication and social skills.
Sharing your experiences with other parents and caregivers of autistic children or differently-abled children can also help. Emotional support from people who can empathize can provide a world of difference. The following organizations can help connect you with resources and support groups:
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network: a disability rights organization that works to ensure autistic individuals have equal rights, opportunities, and access. They provide multiple resources, including a safety toolkit.
- The Autism Society: Focused on improving quality of life for people with autism. Connects families to local chapters that offer support groups and events.
- Yellow Ladybugs: An Australian organization committed to empowering autistic girls, women, and gender-diverse people around the world. Their resources include books, practical tools, and informational guides on supporting autistic girls.
- The ARC of the United States: A national organization that offers support and advocates for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), including autism. Use their website to find your local chapter.
Get legal help
At ABC Law Centers, our firm focuses exclusively on birth injury – particularly on HIE cases. We pride ourselves on thorough, up-to-date knowledge of the complex medical and legal aspects of these cases. We partner with leading medical, economic, and forensics experts to help develop our cases. Our attorneys are passionate about helping families access the resources to provide the best care for their injured children.
Birth injuries are deeply personal, and we understand how overwhelming and emotional this experience can be for any family. For over 25 years, we’ve had the privilege of working alongside courageous parents like you—helping secure the lifetime care and support their children deserve.
At our firm, clients are never a case number. We take the time to truly get to know each family and serve as the trusted advocates they need throughout this journey. When you reach out to us, you’ll be met with compassion, respect, and a commitment to your child’s future.
We’re here to answer your questions, listen to your concerns, and support you every step of the way.
Tell us your story.
Dealing with a birth injury diagnosis can be difficult, but our attorneys can help. The ABC Law Centers: Birth Injury Lawyers team focuses exclusively on birth injury and are dedicated to earning justice for families like yours.
Sources
- Neonatal hypoxia: impacts on the developing mind and brain
- Neurodevelopmental outcome in survivors of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy without cerebral palsy – PubMed
- Autism following a history of newborn encephalopathy: more than a coincidence? – PubMed
- Neonatal encephalopathy: Clinical features and diagnosis – UpToDate
- Autism spectrum disorder – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Symptoms & Causes