Cauda Equina Medical Negligence and Sexual Dysfunction
As well as a variety of other debilitating conditions, cauda equina syndrome can cause sexual dysfunction. If your on-going symptoms are due to poor-quality medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
CES and sexual dysfunction
The cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine are fundamental to the functioning of much of the lower body. Passing messages of sensation and movement between the lower body and the brain, they will cease to function if compressed by, say, a tumour or herniated disc.
As the nerves become increasing compressed, an individual will start to experience losses in bowel and bladder function, lower limb mobility and sexual function.
Symptoms which might indicate that this problem is developing would include the following:
- Lower back pain
- Bilateral pain or altered sensation in both limbs, extending below the knee
- Altered sensation in the saddle area, around the genitals and the anus
- Altered urinary experience such as having to strain to empty the bladder
- Reduced awareness of needing to urinate
Eventually the patient is likely to experience numbness in the genital region and loss of both sexual sensation and function.
Medical negligence
Due to the potential severity of the disability caused by cauda equina syndrome, it is imperative that medical professionals respond promptly to any suspicion that their patient is developing compression of the cauda equina nerves.
A successful response requires recognition of the possible symptoms as noted above. It may require an emergency MRI scan and, if diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome is confirmed, the patient may require emergency decompression surgery.
Where possible, it is essential that medical professionals diagnose and treat cauda equina syndrome before the patient loses complete bladder sensation, the point by which their condition maybe regarded as 'complete' and recovery of function is less likely.
Claiming compensation
Such wide-ranging and debilitating loss of function can be utterly devastating psychologically as well as practically.
The impact on an individual's mental health and confidence, as well as their ability to travel, work and remain independent can be dramatic.
The victim of this appalling condition can suffer significant financial losses if they are now restricted in the extent to which they can work or need personal care and adjustments to their home.
If medical professionals have contributed to this shocking outcome through poor-quality care, the patient is entitled to claim compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one believe you have a claim, contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence law with expertise in cauda equina syndrome claims.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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