If you believe that your diabetes was diagnosed late or was initially misdiagnosed, you may be able to claim compensation.
Diabetes Claims Solicitors
At OP Law, we have extensive experience in assisting clients claim compensation for diabetes as a result of medical negligence.
Diabetes is a serious and life-altering condition, but if diagnosed and treated properly, sufferers can live a full and active life. However, if the condition is diagnosed late or misdiagnosed, the consequences can be serious. Patients may suffer lifelong disability and even die if the condition is not diagnosed early enough to prevent complications.
No medical professional sets out to do a poor job, but mistakes can and do happen. Like any professional to whom we entrust our health, wealth and happiness, medical professionals owe us what is known as a “duty of care”. Simply put, this is the duty to act according to the standards of a professional in his or her field. Common types of medical negligence that affect a patient’s prognosis are misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis and substandard ongoing care & management.
Diabetes Misdiagnosis claims solicitors
Around 1 in 14 people in the UK live with diabetes, and this number is on the rise. There are two types of diabetes.
There are two types of diabetes. These are Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Both are serious lifelong conditions that require careful management to prevent serious complications arising. In extreme cases, mistreatment can be fatal.
Type 1 diabetes (formerly known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes) is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone needed to allow sugar in the form of glucose to enter cells to produce energy.
Genetics and certain viruses can contribute to Type 1 diabetes. Although Type 1 diabetes normally appears during childhood, it can develop in adults. There is no cure for Type 1 diabetes and treatment focuses on managing blood sugar levels through insulin and diet & lifestyle changes.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that prevents the body from regulating the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. In Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas is not producing enough insulin and your body’s cells are responding poorly to insulin and absorbing less sugar. Eventually, Type 2 diabetes can lead to more serious conditions.
Type 2 diabetes more commonly occurs in adulthood, but both can begin in either childhood or adulthood.
As with type 1 diabetes, there is at present no cure. Lifestyle & diet factors can help with managing the disease however if these are insufficient then medication and insulin may be necessary.
Diabetes Symptoms
The most common symptoms of diabetes are:
- Frequent trips to the toilet
- Increased thirst
- Slow healing of wounds
- Increased tiredness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blurred vision
These symptoms are easily missed, especially in the early stages. However, if they are missed, and diabetes goes untreated, then serious complications can result including:
- Amputation
- Stroke & Heart Problems
- Vision Problems
- Kidney Failure
- death
Not all of these complications will inevitably be the result of failures by healthcare professionals, however, if you or a loved one has suffered complications as a result of delayed or misdiagnosed diabetes, then we will be able to advise on the best course of action.
Types of diabetes medical negligence
Misdiagnosis – this occurs when your condition is incorrectly diagnosed by a healthcare professional despite you reporting the symptoms. This can result in delayed treatment and increased risk of complications arising.
Delayed Diagnosis – similar to misdiagnosis, a delayed diagnosis can result in delayed treatment and an increased risk of complications
Poor care & management – this occurs when a complication does arise but is poorly treated or managed. It can also happen as a result of poor treatment while at home. Many diabetics (the elderly & vulnerable in particular) receive their care at home by a district nurse. If the nurse improperly trained in the handling of diabetes then poor treatment can result.
Making a claim for diabetes compensation
There are two specific types of compensation you can claim for diabetes misdiagnosis. These are split into general and special damages. General damages are for pain and suffering (including psychological trauma), and loss of quality of life.
There are also cases where you can claim special damages. These relate to expenses such as:
- Medical care
- Travel costs
- Loss of earnings
- Loss of future earnings
- Purchase of medical equipment
If you or a loved one have suffered as a result of late or misdiagnosed diabetes, OP Law can help you seek financial compensation. Our experienced team will guide you through the complex legal process, ensuring that you receive the best possible outcome to your compensation claim. Click here to get in touch or call us on 01727 790510