Stroke Misdiagnosis

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 IS MOST AT RISK?

Older people aged 65 and over are more at risk from strokes, although an increasing number of younger people are affected each year. Childhood strokes can also impact the lives of some children.

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, even rehabilitation is not possible.