Meningitis Misdiagnosis Claims

Meningitis Misdiagnosis Claims

Meningitis is an infection or inflammation of the protective membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord, called meninges. It can be very serious; if it is not diagnosed and treated quickly it can lead to sepsis (also known as septicaemia), a type of blood poisoning. It can strike at any age but is most common in babies, children and young adults.

Meningitis symptoms can develop very swiftly and can include a range of issues that could be suggestive of other conditions. A high temperature and a fever are common symptoms, as are vomiting, headaches and drowsiness.

Most case of Meningitis are caused by a virus such as the herpes simplex virus (responsible for cold sores and genital herpes), the mumps virus, or enteroviruses that normally only cause a mild stomach upset.

In other cases bacteria are responsible; such as the meningococcal bacteria (of which there are several types), pneumococcal bacteria and haemophilus influenzae bacteria.

Failing to diagnose meningitis can mean the difference between life and death. Take for example the case of the Bridgend woman urgently referred to hospital by her GP with symptoms of meningitis, who was sent home from hospital with paracetamol after being diagnosed with just a migraine. She later died from a form of tuberculosis meningitis.

In another case, a gentleman who died after spending 6 hours waiting in an ambulance when doctors misdiagnosed his meningitis as flu, has been awarded a six-figure sum in an out of court settlement.

When we are ill we rely on medical professionals to identify what is wrong and treat us accordingly. Sometimes it can be very difficult to identify what might be wrong with a patient, but if there is any chance that it might be serious, we should be able to rely on professionals to act in an appropriate manner and eradicate any possibilities rather than ignore potentially dangerous conditions and situations. If you or someone you care for has been let down in this way and a diagnosis has been missed leading to further problems, you could well be entitled to make a claim for compensation. Contact us today and let us see how we can help you get the pay-out you and your family deserve.