Red Flag Symptom Negligence and Claiming Compensation for Cauda Equina
If medical professionals fail to recognise or act upon the possible red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the consequences on the patient's life.
Cauda equina syndrome red flags
The red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome could include the following in addition to lower back pain:
- Bilateral leg pain and altered sensation such as numbness or pins and needles
- Altered or loss of sensation in the saddle area between the legs and around the buttocks
- Altered sensation of bladder fullness
- Altered urinary experience such as having to strain to empty the bladder
- Altered bowel sensation or function
Failing to recognise red flags can be catastrophic. The patient may require an emergency MRI scan and emergency surgery but a failure to recognise their symptoms may mean that they are sent home with a false sense of reassurance about their condition.
Red flag warning negligence
A medical professional may also be regarded as having been negligent if they fail to inform a patient, where appropriate, of the red flag symptoms of this debilitating condition.
Red flags are a sign that urgent action is necessary and a failure to know what these symptoms are may lead a patient to ignore developments in their condition which really ought to prompt an immediate attendance at hospital. The result of this circumstance may be that the patient suffers a far worse outcome than would have been the case had they understood the significance of their red flag symptoms.
Claiming compensation
The long-term symptoms associated with compete cauda equina syndrome are life-changing. The patient may suffer loss of mobility and double incontinence, affecting their ability to work and remain independent within their own home. They may become reliant on personal care and support.
If this situation is regarded as the result of negligent healthcare, the patient is legally entitled to claim compensation for the consequences. This may include a loss of income, the costs of adapting their home to their changed needs and the costs of care.
Specialist legal advice
Compensation claims for cauda equina syndrome negligence can be extremely complex, requiring the input of a range of medical experts to assess the quality of the patient's care and the impact which any negligence may have had on them and their quality of life.
If you think you may have been the victim of negligent medical care, your first step would be to speak with a specialist solicitor who has experience and understanding of these complicated claims.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in high-value cauda equina claims. Contact us today to speak with a specialist, free of charge.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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