Suing the NHS for Cauda Equina Double Incontinence
Is your cauda equina dysfunction due to a failure by NHS professionals to recognise and treat your symptoms? A compensation claim may be a helpful way forward.
Responding to cauda equina syndrome
A patient suffering from complete cauda equina syndrome may be experiencing double incontinence. This appalling condition can affect the functioning of both the bladder and bowel as well as causing loss of mobility and sexual dysfunction.
However, if this shocking condition is diagnosed and treated in time, the patient may avoid such a terrible outcome.
Consequently, if a poor long-term outcome is considered to be the fault of a delay by medical professionals, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Diagnosing cauda equina syndrome
When a patient is developing cauda equina syndrome, it is absolutely crucial that they are diagnosed and treated before their symptoms have progressed so far that recovery is unlikely.
If a patient suffers a sudden onset of cauda equina symptoms or delays seeking medical help until they have lost bladder sensation, it may be that there is nothing their medical practitioner can do to improve their situation.
If they have sought medical help at an early stage of the condition, however, it may be that delays by medical practitioners in assessing, diagnosing and treating the condition, have caused the patient to suffer a poor long-term outcome.
Early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome could include the following:
- Bilateral leg symptoms such as pain, tingling or numbness
- Altered sensation in the saddle area and around the buttocks
- Altered sensation or loss of control when urinating
- Altered sexual sensation or function
Medical negligence
A failure to test for these symptoms in a patient with lower back and leg pain may be regarded as negligent.
A failure to organise an emergency MRI scan in a patient exhibiting these symptoms may also be regarded as negligent.
If delays in diagnosing cauda equina syndrome allow the patient to deteriorate prior to surgery, the relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having provided substandard care and it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for any symptoms caused by the delay and the associated financial losses.
A patient whose cauda equina syndrome has caused them to suffer loss of bowel and bladder control can experience significant difficulties in maintaining their independence and sustaining employment. The financial impact can, therefore, be considerable. A successful compensation claim can help to deal with this situation.
Seek legal advice
If you or a loved one are suffering the horrific impact of cauda equina syndrome due to medical delays, contact Glynns to discuss the possibility of making a compensation claim.
One of our specialist medical negligence solicitors will be very happy to talk to you about you situation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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