Few medical emergencies have the potential to be more devastating than a stroke. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, stroke is the common name for a blockage of blood flow to the brain. Because a stroke deprives the brain of vital nutrients and oxygen, the condition can quickly cause permanent brain damage and other life-altering complications.
Fortunately, many strokes are entirely preventable. On the other hand, when doctors do something wrong, many strokes become imminent. How do you know whether your stroke was due to medical malpractice, though?
Did your doctor monitor your risk factors?
As you undoubtedly know, remaining healthy requires visiting the doctor regularly for health checkups. During your physicals, your physician should assess your stroke risk factors. Here are some common ones:
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Cardiovascular disease
- High cholesterol
If you have one or more of these risk factors, your doctor should closely monitor your stroke probability. Indeed, he or she might need to take action to reduce your odds of having a stroke.
Did your doctor ignore your stroke symptoms?
Individuals who have strokes typically experience weakness, numbness and speech difficulties. You also might feel dizzy or have trouble maintaining balance. If you have any of these symptoms, you need immediate medical attention. Obviously, if your doctor ignores your symptoms, you might suffer catastrophic complications or even die from a stroke.
After suffering a stroke, your life is unlikely ever to be the same again. Ultimately, pursuing financial compensation for your doctor’s medical malpractice can give you the means to better cope with your new way of life.