Strokes are medical emergencies that require prompt diagnosis and treatment to minimise permanent damage and improve outcomes. Unfortunately, misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of a stroke can lead to severe consequences, including permanent disability or death. If you or a loved one has experienced a delay in treatment for stroke due to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis because of medical negligence, you or your loved one may be entitled to compensation. This guide will help you understand types of strokes, how misdiagnosis can occur, and the steps to take when making a claim.
What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes, making immediate medical attention crucial. There are two main types of strokes:
- Ischaemic Stroke: Caused by a blockage in an blood vessel supplying blood to the brain.
- Haemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by bleeding in or around the brain.
A Transient Ischemic Attack is often referred to as a mini-stroke and is the result of a temporary disruption of the blood supply to the brain. Its symptoms mimic those of a stroke over a short period of time and TIAs are often a warning that there is a high risk that stroke will occur. That risk can be significantly reduced with immediate treatment.
How Misdiagnosis happens
Misdiagnosis of a stroke can occur for several reasons, including, but not limited to:
- Failure to Recognize Symptoms: Symptoms of a stroke can vary widely and may be mistaken for other conditions. Common symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, and severe headache.
- Diagnostic Errors: Inadequate use of or interpretation of diagnostic tests such as CT scans or MRIs can lead to a misdiagnosis
- Inadequate Medical History: Not taking a complete patient history or failing to consider risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or previous strokes.
The Impact of Misdiagnosis
The consequences of stroke misdiagnosis can be severe and long-lasting:
- Delayed Treatment: Immediate treatment is crucial in minimising brain damage. Delays can lead to more extensive brain injury.
- Increased Disability: Misdiagnosis can result in more significant and permanent physical and cognitive impairments, impacting both independence and quality of life.
- Higher Mortality Rate: The chances of survival decrease with delayed or incorrect treatment.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Misdiagnosis
If you believe a stroke misdiagnosis has occurred as a result of medical negligence, then it’s essential that you take the proper steps to make a successful claim. These are listed below:
- Seek Medical Attention
- Document Everything
- Consult a Specialist Solicitor
Compensation for Stroke Misdiagnosis
Compensation for stroke misdiagnosis claims can cover:
- Medical Expenses: Costs of past and future treatments related to the stroke.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical limitations, pain and psychological impact.
- Loss of Earnings: If the injury has affected your ability to work.
- Care and Assistance: Costs of additional care and support required due to the injury.
Contact us
Stroke misdiagnosis due to medical negligence can have profound and life-changing consequences. If you suspect that medical negligence has caused a stroke misdiagnosis, it’s is essential to seek legal advice promptly. A successful claim can provide the financial support necessary to manage the consequences of your injury. For expert legal advice and support, visit Medical Negligence Solutions. Our experienced team is happy to help you navigate your way through making a medical negligence claim and get you the compensation that you deserve.
You can contact us by calling us on 0333 043 1253 or by starting a claim.
