Maryland Failure to Diagnose Heart Attack/Myocardial Infarction Lawyer
Heart attacks, medically known as myocardial infarctions, are a leading cause of death in the United States. While they often result in death, they can be treatable if discovered quickly. Since many people suffer from coronary illnesses, medical professionals should be well aware of heart attack symptoms, such as chest pain, pain in one or both arms, back pain, neck pain, jaw pain, nausea, cold sweats, and shortness of breath.
Because heart attacks are so common, a doctor’s failure to recognize the signs of one may constitute malpractice if the patient suffers serious complications or death. Have you or a loved one been a victim? If so, see how the Maryland failure to diagnose heart attack lawyers at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman can help.
What Causes a Heart Attack?
A heart attack is caused by a blockage in the arteries. The blockage is caused by a buildup of plaque, which may include cholesterol, deposits, and other substances. Plaque can break and cause a blood clot, which can then lead to a heart attack.
The heart’s muscle cells become damaged and die once the blood and oxygen supply is cut off. The blockage also causes irreversible damage. The heart muscle no longer works as it should, leading to death without prompt treatment.
When Is it Medical Malpractice?
Doctors don’t directly cause heart attacks, but they can still be liable for one due to a misdiagnosis. Despite the fact that the signs of a heart attack are commonly known, a heart attack is often mistaken for indigestion or heartburn. Therefore, whether or not a doctor can be sued for medical malpractice will depend on the information the doctor was given and what the examination revealed.
Do the records show that the patient was suffering from common heart attack symptoms? Does the patient have a family history of heart disease? Did the doctor conduct proper tests? Did the doctor ask the right questions? Did the patient see another doctor and get a subsequent heart attack diagnosis? The answers to these questions will determine medical malpractice.
Every year, more than 1 million people in the United States have a heart attack. Close to 50% die because they do not receive treatment in time. Treatment aims to remove blockage from the affected arteries to allow for enhanced blood flow. Surgeries such as angioplasty and coronary artery bypass can be used to treat a heart attack, but they need to be given within an hour of when the signs of cardiac arrest start to appear. A procedure called thrombolytic therapy is also successful in breaking down clotted blood.
Contact Us Today
Heart attacks can be deadly if not treated promptly. Doctors who ignore cardiac arrest symptoms can be accused of medical malpractice.
Have you been a victim? If so, the personal injury lawyers at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman can see if you qualify for compensation. To schedule a free consultation, call our office today at (410) 567-0800.
