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If you or a loved one have suffered due to stroke misdiagnosis, you could be entitled to claim compensation. Our team of stroke misdiagnosis solicitors have many years’ experience in dealing with sensitive cases such as these, and are best placed to offer support and guidance at this time.
Urgent treatment is essential in the event of a stroke, and survival rates can depend on the rate at which this treatment is received. However, medical professionals can make mistakes and treatment can be delayed.
About stroke misdiagnosis
A stroke happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, denying it of essential nutrients and oxygen. The longer this supply is interrupted, the more serious the impact can be, possibly resulting in a disability, brain injury, or death.
The two main types of stroke are:
- Ischaemic: where the blood supply is stopped because of a blood clot. This occurs in 80 per cent of cases
- Haemorrhagic: where a weakened blood vessel supplying the brain burst, thereby causing brain damage
If a medical professional fails to identify the warning signs of a stroke, the effects can be life-changing, while the most severe cases can be fatal. It is likely that a stroke misdiagnosis will impact the whole family, and not just the victim, meaning this time can be difficult for a number of people.
It is also important to consider that other related conditions are commonly misdiagnosed, such as a transient ischaemic attack, which results in a temporary interruption to the supply of blood to the brain, causing a “mini-stroke”. This should be treated very seriously, as it could be a warning of an oncoming stroke.
Who are most at risk of suffering from a stroke
Older people aged 65 and over are more at risk from strokes, although an increasing number of younger people are affected each year. Sadly, childhood strokes also impact the lives of 100’s of children each year.
The following factors can also make a stroke more likely:
- Smoking
- Poor diet
- Being overweight
- Lack of exercise
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Atrial fibrillation
- Diabetes
Negligence on the part of a medical professional can also lead to a stroke going undiagnosed or missed completely, putting the life of the victim in danger.
The following symptoms should always be treated with urgency by medical staff:
- Slurred speech
- Numbness in one arm
- Facial weakness
Treatment for a stroke
The treatment given to stroke victims is usually dependent on the type of stroke suffered, the cause of the stroke itself and the part of the brain affected. In many cases, medicinal treatment signals the start of recovery, with drugs administered to prevent and remove any blood clots that have formed. This medication will also reduce blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels.
Surgery may be required to clear fatty deposits in the arteries, or to repair any damage caused by a haemorrhagic stroke.
Effects of misdiagnosis
The impact of stroke misdiagnosis can be devastating and long-lasting. Often, a longer period of rehabilitation is necessary before an individual is able to regain their former independence. Unfortunately, in some cases rehabilitation is not possible.
Here's what sets Ramsdens Solicitors apart
Facing the aftermath of medical negligence can be overwhelming. You deserve not only compensation but also the best possible chance at a full recovery. At Ramsdens Solicitors, we champion the rights of victims, ensuring you have the resources and support needed to heal.
Our approach prioritises your recovery
We understand that rehabilitation can significantly improve your quality of life after an injury. In appropriate cases, our experienced legal team will work diligently to secure access to necessary rehabilitation services, from physiotherapy and occupational therapy to psychological support and adaptations for your home or workplace.
Comprehensive legal support
We go beyond legal expertise. Our team collaborates closely with a network of health and social care professionals, financial advisors, and other legal specialists within our firm. This comprehensive support system ensures all aspects of your case are addressed, from medical care to financial needs.
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Free consultation: Discuss your situation in a confidential, no-obligation setting.
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No win, no fee: We take on the financial risk, so you can focus on healing.
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Prompt communication: We prioritise a quick response to your questions and updates on your case.
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Early home visits: We come to you when you need us most, minimising disruption to your recovery.
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Specialist solicitors: Our team has extensive experience handling medical negligence claims, ensuring your case is in the best hands.
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Friendly and confidential service: Our team treats you with compassion and respect throughout the entire process.
Our commitment goes beyond legal representation:
Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) Membership
Demonstrating our dedication to excellence in personal injury law.
Action Against Medical Accidents Member
The charity for patient safety and justice, providing specialist services for claimant lawyers.
Law Society Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence Panels
Recognised for expertise in handling complex medical negligence cases.
Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Let our medical negligence solicitors guide you through the legal process and connect you with the rehabilitation resources you need to heal and move forward.
Our specialist team of clinical negligence solicitors understand that claiming compensation is a vital lifeline for many people who have suffered due to errors made by GPs, surgeons, nurses and other medical staff. We will follow a holistic approach to help you make the best recovery possible, both during and after the claims process.
You can read how our team has helped our clients to achieve successful clinical negligence claims here.
Medical negligence is a complex and personal area of the law, which is why we work tirelessly to understand the details of your case before fighting your corner with the utmost care and sensitivity. We will always assign solicitors with specific experience of dealing with similar cases.