Can I Sue my GP for Cauda Equina Syndrome Failures?
Recognising and responding to the possible early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome can save the patient from a lifetime of disability. A failure to take the correct action, however, may leave the patient with appalling and permanent symptoms.
Responding to cauda equina syndrome symptoms
If a patient attends their GP with the possible early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, such as pain in the lower back and leg, it is vital that the medical professional takes all precautions to ensure that the patient does not suffer with this shocking condition in the long-term.
- A patient with these symptoms should receive a thorough examination and assessment in order to ascertain whether any other symptoms are being experienced, such as altered urinary experience, which might indicate that the cauda equina nerves are becoming compressed
- If symptoms such as loss of sensation in the saddle area, or difficulty in urinating, or sciatica-like symptoms in both legs, are present it may be necessary to refer the patient for an emergency MRI scan to assess the condition of their cauda equina nerves
- If such symptoms are not present, the GP should warn the patient of the red flag symptoms of this unpleasant condition. A failure to do so may mean that the patient's symptoms deteriorate without the patient realising that they need to attend Accident and Emergency immediately. By the time the patient accesses surgery, their symptoms may have become permanent.
Negligence
If a GP fails to undertake any of these actions when it would normally be considered necessary, they might be regarded as having provided substandard care.
If the patient subsequently suffers a poor long-term outcome due to the delay in diagnosing their condition, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Claiming compensation
A successful compensation claim can help to alleviate some of the extreme difficulties which can be faced by an individual with complete cauda equina syndrome. This might include covering the costs of alterations to accommodation as well as providing compensation for loss of earnings where the patient is unable to work or is restricted in their earning capacity due to their symptoms.
Get specialist legal advice
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling long-term impact of cauda equina syndrome due to medical failings, contact Glynns Solicitors today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor. We have extensive experience of cauda equina syndrome claims and have supported numerous clients in achieving life-changing compensation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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