When a blood clot from another part of the body makes it way to the artery in your lungs and causes a block, this is known as a pulmonary embolism. Due to the nature of this complication, without prompt treatment or in misdiagnosis of pulmonary embolism there is a high chance of death. On the other hand, timely treatment often results in survival and a healthy life.
Those who have suffered injury as a result of misdiagnosis of this condition should consult an experienced Florida pulmonary embolism misdiagnosis attorney. A case review by Lisa S. Levine, P.A. can determine if the injury or death was a result of negligence.
Causes of Pulmonary Embolism
The origin of a pulmonary embolism is a blood clot located somewhere else in the body, such as the arms, legs or abdomen that travels to the lungs.
Risks that may increase the risk of a pulmonary embolism include:
- Trauma or damage to vein walls
- Being immobilized for a long period of time (such as long plane or car rides)
- Medications, smoking or other factors that increase the blood’s clotting potential.
When a blood clot makes it into the blood stream, it can block smaller vessels and capillaries. When it reaches the brain, it is considered a stroke, and a blood clot that reaches the heart may cause a heart attack.
Injury Victim
Symptoms and Treatment
It is important to know if you are at risk of blood clots or a pulmonary embolism. The symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Cough
- Chest pain
- Leg pain
- Heavy sweating
- Labored breathing
Always check with a doctor any time you believe you may have symptoms of this condition. It is better to be safe and have the opinion of a medical professional.
Misdiagnosis of Pulmonary Embolism
Sometimes, an individual sees a medical professional over pulmonary embolism symptoms and are misdiagnosed. The symptoms can be similar to other conditions such as a heart attack or bronchitis.
Since prompt treatment of pulmonary embolism is critical to recovery, misdiagnosis can be fatal. When a condition is missed due to negligence, it is considered medical malpractice. The following is considered malpractice in a medical setting for pulmonary embolism:
- Failure to monitor while in the emergency room
- Failure to recognize pulmonary embolism symptoms
- Failure to perform an angiogram,
- Treatment of the wrong condition
Symptoms similar to other conditions leading to misdiagnosis are not an excuse. The medical staff should be able to rule out other diseases and conditions and make a correct diagnosis. There are specific tests that can be run to determine whether or not an individual is suffering a pulmonary embolism, and failure to run these tests is considered negligence.
When you suspect negligence in any misdiagnosis case, especially pulmonary embolism, contact an attorney right away.
Get Help from a Florida Pulmonary Embolism Misdiagnosis Lawyer
Medical malpractice cases can be serious and expensive, resulting in lasting injuries or even death. Misdiagnosis of pulmonary embolism is serious and should be reviewed by an attorney. Lisa S. Levine, P.A. has helped her clients through these difficult times and cases for over 35 years, specializing in cauda equina and medical malpractice cases.
Call 855-551-8060 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a private consultation today.
