Deteriorating Symptoms and Cauda Equina Negligence
The progressive nature of cauda equina syndrome can mean that an individual whose initial symptoms were fairly mild, such as altred urinary function and back pain, can end up paralysed with double incontinence.
If such an appalling outcome is due to poor-quality medical care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome could include the following:
- Lower back pain
- Leg pain or altered sensation
- Altered sensation in the saddle are
- Altered urinary function
At this point the patient still retains urinary function, sexual function and mobility. If delays in diagnosis and treatment allow the nerve compression to deteriorate, however, the patient may be left with the following, permanent symptoms:
- Bladder incontinence
- Faecal incontinence
- Wind incontinence
- Sexual dysfunction
- Loss of mobility
In addition to this shocking catalogue of disabling symptoms, however, should be added the psychological distress caused by such symptoms and the financial losses which may be incurred by the patient.
The patient's income may be devastated by inability to work at the same time as needing care and possible significant changes to their living accommodation.
Medical negligence
This likely progressive nature of compression of the cauda equina nerves and the associated loss of lower body function means that medical professionals need to diagnose this appalling condition as promptly as possible. Any delay could prove catastrophic to the patient's outcome.
Where possible, it is essential that a patient who is developing cauda equina syndrome is diagnosed at the point where they still retain bladder sensation. It would appear that, once this function is lost, the chances of recovery are reduced and the patient may suffer permanent disability.
It is imperative, therefore, that early signs and symptoms are recognised and assessed and that a timely referral for further investigation and surgery is made. Any misdiagnosis or delay may be regarded as negligent and may justify a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling symptoms and long-term impact of cauda equina syndrome due to substandard medical care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation. A successful claim would take account of the financial losses caused by the negligence.
Contact Glynns Solicitors today to talk to a specialist lawyer with expertise in cauda equina syndrome negligence about the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of this condition due to medical negligence, contact us to speak with a specialist medical negligence solicitor about your situation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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