New Jersey Medical Malpractice Lawyers Discuss Sepsis
The recent death of actress Patty Duke has raised new interest in “sepsis”, which is an often fatal condition that attacks the body in response to an infection. What many people don’t know realize is that sepsis is a commonly treated disease that claims roughly 250,000 lives each year. In just 2009 alone, over 1.5 million people were treated for sepsis in hospitals across the country at a cost of over 15 billion dollars.
Sepsis is an autoimmune response wherein the body sends out toxins to kill an existing infection that goes into overdrive, actually shutting down organs, which can lead to death. The first stage is when the diagnosis of the condition is made. When standard treatment fails to stop the autoimmune reaction, severe sepsis can occur. This can lead to septic shock, which is most often fatal.
Though sepsis itself is not an infection, it is commonly found in post-surgical patients or those already in the hospital for conditions such as pneumonia. The victim’s body is already weakened from surgery or illness when the autoimmune response is triggered, making them prone to serious and fatal complications. The quicker the condition is diagnosed, the better the chances for survival. With every hour that the condition remains untreated, the odds of recovering from the illness diminish.
The symptoms of sepsis should never be ignored or taken lightly. Fever with severe chills, a heart rate of 90 beats per minute, and respirations over 20 breaths a minute are usually the first signs of sepsis. As the condition progresses, symptoms of organ failure related to severe sepsis can include decreased urination, problems with cognitive functioning, low platelets, and abdominal pain. At this stage of the disease, many serious complications can occur such as blood clots and decreased blood flow to extremities that can result in gangrene and amputation. The final stage of the condition is known as septic shock. At this point, blood pressure can reach dangerously low levels and be unresponsive to fluids and other medical intervention.
Doctors and hospitals are reporting an increasing number of sepsis cases across the United States. Many attribute this increase to the ever growing elderly population. Drug resistant bacteria is also causing severe infections, which lead to an increased risk for developing the autoimmune response that causes sepsis. Medical advances that are prolonging life for many with compromised immune systems such as those with HIV, diabetes, and cancer are also contributing to the rise in reported sepsis incidents. Anyone who has recently been hospitalized, has had surgery or post-surgical infections, or has a weakened immune system and shows symptoms of sepsis should seek immediate medical help.
New Jersey Medical Malpractice Lawyers at Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP Represent Victims of Medical and Surgical Errors
If you or someone you know has been injured or has died as a result of sepsis, you may be entitled to compensation. When sepsis results from carelessness, negligence, or a failure to diagnose the condition, the doctor, hospital, or medical staff may be held liable for medical malpractice. New Jersey medical malpractice lawyers at Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP are dedicated to helping victims of medical and surgical errors claim the justice and compensation they may be entitled to under the law.
Call us at 732-777-0100 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation today. Our offices are conveniently located in Red Bank, Toms River, and Edison, New Jersey and serve clients throughout the state.
Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP has purposely remained small in size, because it is important to us that we get to know our clients and their needs. Larger NJ injury firms may churn out case after case, but that’s not how we operate. Partners Barry Eichen, William Crutchlow, and Daryl Zaslow have created a firm with the resources to handle complex litigation, and a team that takes your case personally.
Find out more about Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP