Red Flag Cauda Equina Symptoms Ignored
If a patient is exhibiting red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, they are likely to require emergency investigation and treatment. If medical delays cause the patient to suffer significant permanent symptoms, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Compression of the cauda equina nerves
A patient in the early stages of cauda equina syndrome may visit their GP complaining of pain in the lower back and leg. They may be suffering from sciatica but a failure by a medical professional to make a thorough assessment for any other symptoms may be regarded as negligent.
Symptoms associated with cauda equina syndrome are caused by compression of the nerves at the base of the spine. If this compression is not diagnosed and treated with surgery, the patient is likely to find that their symptoms deteriorate and their loss of function may become permanent.
Medical professionals need to look for any signs that their patient's symptoms are being caused by loss of nerve function.
Cauda equina syndrome red flags
The cauda equina nerves provide sensation and control in the bowel, bladder, pelvic region and legs. Compression of these vital nerves can produce the following symptoms:
- Altered sensation in the saddle area around the genitals and buttocks, such as tingling or reduced feeling
- Altered sensation in sexual intercourse
- Altered anal tone
- Loss of awareness of needing to urinate
- Altered experience when urinating such as having to strain or a poor flow
- Tingling in the legs or weakness or loss of sensation
- Loss of ankle reflex
Any of these symptoms can be a sign that the patient needs an emergency MRI scan to confirm the cause of their symptoms.
If a medical professional fails to make a thorough examination of their patient or fails to recognise the significance of their patient's symptoms, they may be regarded as having provided substandard care and it may be appropriate to make a compensation claim for any financial losses caused by the patient's poor outcome.
Specialist legal advice
Cauda equina syndrome compensation claims are highly-complex and require the attention of a specialist solicitor.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of cauda equina syndrome due to delays in medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence compensation, to talk to a lawyer with expertise in this specific field.
Call us today if you or a loved one are struggling with the permanent impact of this shocking condition due to poor-quality medical care.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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