Claiming Compensation for Long-term Impact of Hydrocephalus Negligence
Hydrocephalus compensation claims can arise from negligence both at the stage of initial diagnosis or due to the failure of treatment. Both circumstances can leave the patient with life-changing symptoms and may justify a claim for compensation.
Long-term symptoms of hydrocephalus
An individual who has not received successful treatment for hydrocephalus for whatever reason may suffer a wide range of debilitating and life-changing symptoms including the following:
- Problems with speech
- Problems with vision
- Problems with mobility and co-ordination
- Memory and cognitive difficulties
- Problems with epilepsy
Impact on quality of life
At a practical level, symptoms such as these may deprive that individual of the capacity to continue working, thereby also depriving them of their income. They may no longer be able to drive or to travel independently. It may severely impact on their capacity as a parent and on their ability to function on a day-to-day basis.
If their physical and mental capacity is restricted by these symptoms, the patient may require support in order to help them in what may previously have been simple daily tasks. They may no longer be able to live in their own home without help.
On a psychological level, the impact can be dramatic as the person finds that their life has changed utterly, affecting their family life and personal relationships and self-confidence.
The need for urgency and certainty when dealing with a possible case of hydrocephalus is clear.
What causes hydrocephalus?
The term 'hydrocephalus' refers to a condition caused by the build-up of the cerebrospinal fluid which surrounds the brain. CSF provides an essential function in protecting the brain from shock and damage but if an excess of CSF develops in the cranial space, it can itself cause damage to the brain, possibly prompting the symptoms mentioned earlier.
An excessive build-up of cerebrospinal fluid may happen for a variety of reasons around either over-production of the fluid in the first place or a failure in the functioning of the normal drainage system.
Whatever the cause, it is essential that the normal levels are maintained and any excess is removed.
Delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of hydrocephalus is essential if the patient is to avoid the risk of permanent brain damage and the debilitating symptoms which can be associated with that.
A failure by medical professionals to consider the possible implications of a patient's early symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, visual problems and confusion, may be regarded as substandard care.
If a patient does not receive prompt investigation of their symptoms, they may suffer permanent brain damage.
Shunt failure
Hydrocephalus is treated with the insertion into the skull of an artificial shunt or tube that enables the fluid to drain away from the brain. However, it is possible for this solution to fail and patients who have had a shunt inserted require careful monitoring and prompt attention if they begin to exhibit any symptoms which might suggest that their shunt if failing. A delay in rectifying the problem will allow CSF to build up again, putting the patient at risk of developing long-term problems.
Speak to a solicitor
If the failure of medical professionals to recognise the significance of the patient's symptoms has resulted in permanent problems due to hydrocephalus, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of such a situation, contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence claims, to talk to an experienced solicitor with expertise in this field.
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