While most illnesses are caused by an external influence, sepsis occurs when your body’s natural immune system goes haywire. The result can damage your organs and threaten to shut down your body altogether. Since sepsis can quickly lead to septic shock, it’s important that doctors diagnose this illness as soon as possible.
Is sepsis hard to diagnose?
Diagnosing sepsis can be somewhat difficult. A doctor will usually start by drawing blood from two different places in your body and then test the sample for issues that could suggest the presence of sepsis. If a blood test isn’t enough, they might also test your urine, mucus or wound secretions.
If they still need more data, your doctor might run visual tests to see what’s going on inside your body. This could include an X-ray, ultrasound or MRI scan. At this point, they should be able to determine whether you have sepsis.
Sepsis can be difficult to diagnose, but it’s not impossible. Since sepsis can lead to infection, organ failure and even death, you don’t have time to wait around for a diagnosis. A delayed diagnosis could result in a malpractice lawsuit for the physician.
When should you seek a malpractice lawsuit?
Doctors can’t afford to make mistakes. If they fail to diagnose your illness or misdiagnose it, you might have to deal with the illnesses, injuries, side effects and other issues as a result of their malpractice. Fortunately, you may be able to hold your physician accountable.
An attorney may help you prepare a case to prove that you’ve suffered as a result of your physician’s negligence. You might be able to receive compensation for your medical bills, physical damages and emotional damages. The issue may be settled outside of a courtroom.
