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Medical malpractice claim might follow missed TBI diagnosis

On Behalf of | Oct 15, 2018 | Medical Malpractice

A violent jolt or blow to the body or head can cause traumatic brain injuries. Mild traumatic brain injuries are not always evident on EEGs, CT scans and neurological examinations. However, New York victims of such accidents might not realize that the absence of evidence does not necessarily mean there is no cerebral injury, and such a missed diagnosis could lead to medical malpractice claims.

TBI can also be caused by the brain being penetrated by a piece of shattered bone if a bullet or blunt force trauma damage the skull. In most cases of first-time mild traumatic brain injuries, symptoms disappear within about three months. However, even MTBIs can have severe consequences if they go misdiagnosed or undiagnosed, and in some cases, they are even ignored. The problem with this is that subsequent MTBIs are likely to have more severe and more persistent symptoms.

When a victim of multiple MTBIs tries to return to familiar living patterns, the reduced capacity to function might cause anxiety and depression. It could also lead to intentional isolation from family and friends, and this estrangement could cause a gradual deterioration of the family structure. Victims may have increased incidents of anger at not only loved ones but also physicians, insurance providers and other members of the system that they might find failing. The consequences could include suicidal ideas and even attempts to commit suicide.

Anyone in New York who is suffering any symptoms that indicate missed MTBI diagnoses might have questions about the right to take legal action and whether there might be grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit. An experienced medical malpractice attorney can answer questions, assess the circumstances and suggest the way forward. If legal proceedings ensue, the lawyer can provide the necessary support and guidance in pursuit of financial relief.

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