Compensation for Delayed Hydrocephalus Diagnosis
A prompt diagnosis of hydrocephalus is vital to the well-being, even the survival, of the patient. A misdiagnosis or failure to investigate symptoms may justify a claim for compensation.
Failure to diagnose hydrocephalus
A failure to recognise the symptoms of hydrocephalus can allow excess fluid to continue to build up in the brain. This, in turn, can cause debilitating damage to the brain, resulting in memory problems, speech and vision problems and epilepsy. The patient may also experience mobility problems.
All of these problems can impact on the individual's ability to function independently day-to-day and, if this impact is considered to be the result of delayed diagnosis, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Developing hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus can develop in people of all ages. Babies may be born with it but in adults it may be the knock-on effect of another underlying problem such as a blood clot, a stroke, a brain tumour or a meningitis infection in the brain.
In combination with the symptoms of hydrocephalus, these additional factors should alert medical professionals to the possibility that the patient is developing hydrocephalus.
A patient with hydrocephalus is likely to be exhibiting the following symptoms:
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Visual problems
- Neck pain
A patient with these symptoms requires prompt investigation of the possibility that they are developing hydrocephalus. They need a referral for additional tests such as a CT or MRI scan.
If a patient has a diagnosis of hydrocephalus, it is likely that they will require the insertion of a shunt or tube to drain the excess cerebrospinal fluid away from the brain.
Medical negligence
Where diagnosis and treatment are delayed due to a misdiagnosis of symptoms, the patient's ability to work, travel and care for themselves may be compromised.
If you or a loved one are suffering the long-term impact of misdiagnosed hydrocephalus, contact Glynns Solicitors to discuss your situation with a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
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