Investigating a stroke negligence claim
Medical negligence claims can be lengthy and complex as the injured person has to show both that the treatment received was not to a reasonable standard and that, as a result, they have suffered an injury.
If you are able to prove this, you also have to look at the value of the claim which requires further investigation if the claim involves a stroke as the injured person may require care, aids and equipment or alternative accommodation.
Sometimes, the injured person doesn't have capacity to bring the claim on their own behalf and we need to appoint a family member to represent their interests as a 'litigation friend'.
If you believe that you may have a medical negligence claim following treatment for a stroke speak to our expert team for free initial guidance on your options, call us on 01616 966 229 or complete our online enquiry form and we will contact you directly.
What is a stroke?
A stroke is when the blood supply to the brain is cut off causing the brain cells to die. This can lead to brain injury, serious disability and sometimes even death.
Diagnosing a stroke
The sooner that treatment is provided for a stroke, the less likely brain injury is to occur. There has been a well-advertised campaign from the NHS outlining the symptoms of a stroke as F.A.S.T.
- Face – the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have dropped
- Arms – the person with suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in one arm
- Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake
- Time – it's time to dial 999 immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms
Once at hospital, a blood test or brain scan may be undertaken to determine the type of stroke suffered and what treatment is required.
Treating a stroke
Treatment for a stroke depends on the type of stroke the patient is suffering from. There are broadly two types: ischaemic stroke (when a blood clot stops the blood supply to the brain) and, more rarely, haemorrhagic (where a weakened blood vessel supplying the brain bursts). Treatment can include medication or surgery to prevent and dissolve blood clots.
Recent settlements
Laura Sheehan settled a claim for £940,000 due to a delay in diagnosing and treating a TIA (mini-stroke). The client went on to suffer a stroke and chronic fatigue syndrome which severely impacted her everyday life.