Strokes are often very difficult to detect. They can come on very quickly and can often initially seem to the victim to be a sign of tiredness or low blood sugars. What is clear is that, as and when they are identified, it is vital to seek medical assistance as quickly as possible. Every minute counts if you wish to minimise a stroke’s short and indeed long-term effects. A stroke left untreated for too long can sometimes be fatal.
Claims involving strokes can arise when there is a failure of the part of the treating doctor(s) to recognise the signs of a stroke and thereby fail to act upon it to minimise the damage caused. A patient can suffer harm as a result of a failure to reach a correct diagnosis; to provide the necessary treatment, or, in some other way, to manage the stroke.
Some examples of negligence claims related to stroke include:
Delayed diagnosis - if the treating physician fails to recognise the signs and symptoms of a stroke in a timely manner, and as a result, the patient does not receive prompt and appropriate treatment. That may involve an urgent transfer to hospital.
Misdiagnosis - if the doctor misdiagnoses a stroke as a different condition, such as a migraine or an epileptic fit. This often results in the patient not receiving the appropriate treatment.
Medication errors - if the doctor administers the wrong medication or the wrong dosage of medication is given to a patient during the initial vital treatment of the stroke.
Surgical error - if a patient undergoes surgery for a stroke-related condition, such as a carotid endarterectomy, and the procedure is performed improperly, resulting in harm to the patient.
Failure to provide appropriate treatment - if the physician fails to provide appropriate treatment, such as thrombolytic therapy, anticoagulation therapy, or rehabilitation, to a patient following a stroke.
If you believe that you or a loved one has suffered harm as a result of poor treatment concerning the diagnosis, treatment, or management of a stroke, it is important to consult with us as soon as possible so we can advise you on the prospects of your case and, where appropriate, work with you to claim compensation for your losses.
If you think you may have a claim and wish to discuss the matter further, please contact us on 0800 808 5493 or complete our online enquiry form.
