Stroke is one of the leading causes of adult death in the United States, as well as a frequent cause of disability. When stroke is diagnosed and treated promptly, particularly within the “golden hour” immediately following the onset of symptoms, the severity of damage caused by a stroke can be greatly reduced. Swift recognition that a stroke has occurred greatly improves chances for survival and preservation of function. Failure to diagnose a stroke, on the other hand, can lead to severe, permanent brain injury, and of course, death.
There are multiple types of strokes. Most strokes are ischemic strokes, which are caused by a blood clot blocking a blood vessel to the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood in the brain ruptures. Transitory ischemic attacks (TIAs) are frequently referred to as “mini-strokes.” TIAs appear minor and may resolve on their own, but are sometimes the precursor to a more serious stroke, so they should never be taken lightly.
Regardless of the type of stroke, all strokes may exhibit a number of symptoms that should never be ignored. In addition to TIAs, stroke patients may experience weakness, numbness or paralysis, especially on one side of the body; sudden, severe headaches; slurred speech; confusion; difficulty speaking or understanding speech; or sudden vision changes. Doctors and other health care providers who fail to thoroughly investigate any of these signs and symptoms may have committed medical malpractice.
At The Fraser Law Firm P.C., we know that failure to diagnose a stroke, or needless delay in diagnosing one, cost our clients and their families a great deal: pain, loss of physical function, and sometimes, loss of life. In addition, of course, there are the mounting medical bills at the same time there is a loss of income. We know that money cannot compensate our clients for all these losses, but being relieved of financial burdens can remove a significant source of stress.
Oregon medical malpractice cases, including failure to diagnose stroke, require a high level of legal skill and significant resources and preparation. For these reasons, few attorneys even accept these cases. The Fraser Law Firm P.C. has working relationships with the top medical experts whose testimony is essential to winning failure to diagnose stroke cases. We also have extensive experience preparing cases and presenting evidence in court.
The physical, emotional, and financial damage caused by a a doctor's failure to diagnose stroke can make life seem like it's spinning out of control. At The Fraser Law Firm P.C., we strive to help our clients regain control of their lives. We involve our clients in the preparation of their cases and keep them informed throughout the legal process.
If you believe that you, or a loved one, has suffered injury due to a doctor's failure to diagnose a stroke, your time to take action is limited. The Fraser Law Firm P.C. can help you determine whether you have a viable medical malpractice case and help you decide how to proceed.
The Fraser Law Firm P.C. serves Portland and the surrounding areas, working with clients throughout Oregon. Contact us at (971) 266-8877. We look forward to working with you.