Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening illness caused when infections go untreated. Often referred to as “poisoning of the blood,” sepsis occurs when the body detects an infection and releases chemicals into the bloodstream. This reaction can cause an inflammatory response. If left unnoticed, the inflammation can cause tissue damage, organ failure, and potentially death.
Sepsis usually goes through three states. If not monitored and diagnosed properly, sepsis can transform into septic shock, which is when organ and heart failure occur. Because of how quickly the illness progresses, early detection and treatment is vital.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that an average of over one million people in the United States are treated for the illness. Of this number, between 28 and 50 percent of patients die. Often, the damage occurs because doctors and hospital staff do not follow the appropriate measures to help their patients. If you or your loved one suffered because of undiagnosed or untreated sepsis, you may have a claim to compensation.
Contact Aldous Law today to learn your legal rights!
Symptoms of Sepsis and Septic Shock
Sepsis progresses in three states. It begins with sepsis, moves on to severe sepsis, and culminates in septic shock. Doctors can look for multiple signs that indicate sepsis.
Common symptoms of all sepsis stages include:
- Fast heart rate and breathing
- Body temperature under 96.8F or higher than 101F
- Infection
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion, delirium, or change in mental status
- Organ failure
Because sepsis can be life-threatening, doctors and medical staff constantly need to monitor their patients to check for it. Individuals who are fighting an infection are at higher risk for developing the condition.
Medical Malpractice In Sepsis Cases
Sepsis is a condition that can progress quickly if left untreated. When a patient is admitted into the hospital with an infection, doctors need to be aware of what can happen. In some cases, physicians fail to recognize the symptoms of sepsis, which can cause severe injuries and wrongful death.
Common medical errors include:
- Failing to recognize sepsis symptoms
- Not diagnosing the condition in a timely manner
- Failing to promptly treat sepsis
- Not considering the patient’s medical history and records
Legal Counsel That Prioritizes Your Needs!
At Aldous Law, we do not settle for subpar representation. Many attorneys view their clients as another case number. We do not. At our firm, you will have a whole team looking at your situation. We believe having more eyes and minds involved will help us present your story in the best way in court. Your pain and loss matter. Because we take the time to get to know you, we establish a bond and trust not common at other firms. Clients become like family. We work hardest for those closest to us.
If you were injured or lost someone because of undiagnosed or untreated sepsis, contact our Dallas sepsis malpractice lawyers today for a free consultation!
