Cauda Equina Bladder Symptoms Misdiagnosed
Understanding the significance of bladder symptoms in cauda equina syndrome is essential to a good outcome for the patient. A failure by medical practitioners to respond appropriately to such symptoms may result in permanent disability and prompt a claim for compensation.
Urination and cauda equina syndrome
In the early stages of cauda equina syndrome, the patient may be suffering with pain in the lower back and down one leg. They may also be experiencing tingling or weakness in that leg. Their medical professional may suggest a diagnosis of sciatica.
However, their symptoms may, in fact, be caused by compression of their cauda equina nerves and it is essential that the medical professional checks thoroughly for any additional symptoms which might suggest this underlying problem.
Any alteration in the patient's experience of urinating may be a sign that they are developing cauda equina syndrome and this combination of symptoms may require an emergency MRI scan and possible emergency decompression surgery.
Urinary symptoms which may be caused by compression of the cauda equina nerves include the following:
- Difficulty starting to urinate
- Reduced sensation when urinating
- Loss of awareness of needing to urinate
- Leakage and loss of control of urination
- Poor urinary flow
Medical negligence
Medical professionals may be considered as having been negligent if they fail to examine the patient for such symptoms, fail to respond to symptoms, fail to warn the patient as to the importance of these symptoms or misdiagnose these symptoms. All of these responses will cause a delay in the patient receiving the necessary investigation and diagnosis of their cauda equina syndrome.
The recognition of cauda equina bladder symptoms is crucial not only in providing a diagnosis of this appalling condition but also in that, once the patient has lost bladder function and sensation, they are less likely to experience a positive outcome after surgery.
A patient who has lost the ability to sense that they need to urinate, described as 'being in retention', is considered to have complete cauda equina syndrome and may suffer permanent symptoms of incontinence and loss of mobility.
A patient who undergoes decompression surgery whilst still retaining some bladder control and sensation is more likely to experience a positive outcome from surgery.
A failure to understand the significance of bladder symptoms in a patient with lower back pain is, therefore, potentially life-changing.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are suffering the shocking permanent impact of cauda equina syndrome, contact Glynns to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
We have supported numerous clients in making highly-successful cauda equina compensation claims and one of our team of lawyers will be very happy to discuss your situation with you.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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