Stroke Medical Negligence in Diagnosis
If substandard medical care causes a patient to suffer a worse long-term outcome than would otherwise have been the case, the law allows for the victim to be awarded compensation.
Long-term impact of a severe stroke
A severe stroke can be utterly life-changing.
The victim may suffer a range of distressing and debilitating conditions caused by the failure of the blood supply to the brain.
These effects can include physical, cognitive and psychological difficulties.
A person may suffer from paralysis to some degree, causing difficulties with mobility and balance. They may be unable to use their upper limbs and they may have difficulty swallowing and speaking.
They may also struggle with memory difficulties and depression.
The broader, long-term implications are significant. After a severe stroke, the individual is unlikely to be able to work. They are also likely to require some degree of rehabilitation maybe in the form of physiotherapy and speech therapy. They may require permanent personal care and support.
The impact on their life and that of their loves ones is devastating. A family may lose its main income at the same time as facing significant care costs.
If medical negligence has played a part in this shocking outcome, a successful compensation claim can take these issues into account.
Warning signs
A failure by medical professionals to recognise the warning signs that a patient may be at risk of a severe stroke may be regarded as negligent.
Signs and symptoms which might be expected to raise suspicion would include the following:
- Suffering a headache for an unknown reason
- Suffering visual problems
- Being overweight
- Being diabetic
- Having previously experienced a mini-stroke
- Having high blood pressure
Medical negligence
If medical professionals fail to understand the possible significance of these symptoms, the patient may be sent home with a misdiagnosis. Without red flag warnings, they may not understand the need to attend hospital immediately if symptoms persist or worsen.
Failing to carry out the necessary actions, such as a referral to hospital for further testing may be regarded as negligent care by the relevant medical practitioner.
Claiming compensation
If you or a loved one are struggling with the long-term impact of a severe stroke due to poor-quality medical care, contact Glynns to talk to a specialist solicitor.
We are a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with the expertise to advise you as to the best way forward.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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