Red Flag Warnings Missed in Cauda Equina Syndrome Diagnosis
Awareness of the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome is crucial for both the medical practitioner and the patient. Ignorance of the significance of these symptoms may leave the patient disabled.
The role of red flag symptoms
It is essential that the relevant medical professional understands what signs and symptoms to look for and what tests to carry out when faced with a patient with lower back and leg pain. It is, furthermore, imperative that they understand which symptoms would necessitate a referral for an immediate MRI scan.
It is also vital that, should the patient not be exhibiting those symptoms at the time of their medical consultation, they are, nonetheless, made aware of the red flags symptoms which should prompt them to go to Accident and Emergency immediately.
A failure in either of these circumstances may leave the patient facing a lifetime of double incontinence and loss of mobility.
It may leave the medical practitioner facing a claim for compensation.
Cauda equina red flag symptoms
The red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, in a patient with lower back and leg pain could include the following:
- Leg pain and tingling or weakness becoming present in the second leg
- Altered sensation or loss of sensation in the saddle area and around the anus and buttocks
- Altered bladder sensation or function such as reduced awareness of needing to urinate or having to strain to initiate urination
A patient who is experiencing these symptoms may be developing cauda equina syndrome. If they do not receive a diagnosis and undergo surgery as a matter of emergency, it is possible that their nerves will become permanently dysfunctional. Their lower body symptoms may become permanent.
It is essential that symptoms such as these are acted on and investigated immediately. This would require the patient to undergo an MRI scan to assess the condition of their spine in the lumbar region.
Without such a test, the compression of their cauda equina nerves may not be identified until their disability is irreversible.
Medical negligence
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling and life-changing impact of cauda equina syndrome due to poor medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors today. It may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation which can provide recompense for the pain, suffering and financial losses associated with the negligence.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Make An Enquiry
Why Choose Us
- Specialist medical negligence solicitors
- Free initial enquiries
- No win, no fee available
Reviews
Our Expertise
Helping Clients Across England & Wales
