Failure to Diagnose Stroke Lawyer
A stroke is caused by a blockage that partially or completely cuts off the supply of oxygen to the brain. It is one of the leading causes of non-accidental deaths. Even if a person survives a stroke, they can face permanent brain damage and other injuries that can alter their life. Early diagnosis is the best hope for treatment to prevent death and injury. Yet, many cases of stroke are misdiagnosed, or the diagnosis is delayed. When a medical professional fails to recognize the signs of a stroke that leads to injury or death, they may be guilty of medical malpractice or negligence.
Symptoms of a stroke should be well-known by medical professionals. When a patient comes into an emergency room or medical clinic complaining of any combination of the following symptoms, it should be an indication that stroke is a possibility and testing should occur:
- Impaired speech
- Visibility issues
- Confusion or problems understanding instructions
- Numbness or weakness in limbs on only one side of the body
- Headaches
- Difficulty walking or performing routine movements
Because of the high occurrence of stroke, these symptoms in any combination should alert a medical professional to begin checking the patient for stroke. Testing of blood pressure and other indicators can quickly indicate that a stroke is occurring, and quick treatment can reduce the chance of serious injury or death.
Injuries from Delayed Stoke Treatment
The most obvious injury from delayed stroke treatment is death. However, even those that survive can have permanent disabilities that will impact the rest of their life. Some injuries from stroke include:
- Dysphagia or difficulty swallowing
- Foot drop
- Pain
- Paralysis
- Cognitive impairment
- Memory loss
- Speech impairment
Some of these disabilities can improve in time with therapy, others may be present for the rest of the patient’s life. It can require ongoing treatments, therapy and medications, along with medical and personal care.
When a stroke is not diagnosed by a doctor or medical facility, causing harm to the patient, it can be a case of medical malpractice. Contact our team at Moriarty Injury Lawyer to discuss your case. Your first consultation is always free, and there is never any obligation to proceed with your legal case.