Endocarditis Compensation Claim
Infective endocarditis may be fairly rare in the UK, but it can be both life-threatening as well as highly debilitating. Medical professionals who fail to consider it as a diagnosis may, therefore, be considered to have acted negligently.
Medical negligence and infective endocarditis
Where a patient is suffering with the long-term effects of infective endocarditis due to a delayed diagnosis, it is likely that their quality of life has taken a distinctly downward turn. It may, therefore, be appropriate to make a claim for compensation to help cope with the daily problems which they face.
A poor outcome from infective endocarditis is not necessarily an indication that the patient is the victim of medical negligence. Infective endocarditis is a very serious infection of the heart and is associated with a high mortality rate.
Where the patient's chances of a good outcome are significantly reduced by substandard medical care, however, it may be worthwhile to consult a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Complications of infective endocarditis
Infective endocarditis is a bacterial infection of the lining of the heart which requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. The patient is likely to need a course of intravenous antibiotics and may also require surgery.
A failure to diagnose and treat this serious infection promptly can reduce the functioning of the heart and leave the patient facing heart failure or a stroke.
The long-term impact of either of these devastating occurrences can be life-changing. The patient may lose their independence and find it impossible to work. They may no longer be able to drive, walk or communicate effectively. They may require alternative accommodation or significant changes to their existing accommodation.
Diagnosis of infective endocarditis
Although the symptoms of this serious condition, such as a high temperature and headache, may indicate a number of differing medical problems, patients who have pre-existing heart problems, have undergone heart surgery, and the elderly are more susceptible to this infection and medical professionals should take this into account when considering the possible causes of their symptoms.
The patient will probably need to undergo a number of tests such as a CT scan or echocardiogram to try to confirm a diagnosis.
When the symptoms prompt a misdiagnosis or there is a failure to investigate the patient's symptoms thoroughly, the risks to the patient's health and life increase.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are suffering with the long-term impact of delayed diagnosis of infective endocarditis, you may wish to speak to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Contact us today to discuss whether it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
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