Cardiac Claims

Claims for Misdiagnosis of Heart Problems

Osbornes Law have helped clients where an incorrect diagnosis has led to the wrong treatment for a heart attack. Our lawyers have also been involved in cases where a shortage of equipment led to delays in treatment. We specialise in heart disease medical negligence claims.

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  • “Osbornes Law is an established firm which handles a breadth of complex and high-value clinical negligence matters.”

  • “The team frequently represents claimants in complex  disputes, involving hypertensions, as well as inadequate treatment of heart and blood diseases.”

Cardiac negligence claims

Heart disease can be experienced in four main ways:

  • Angina: this is when you experience chest pain, usually when you are being active, but it can also occur at rest. The pain is caused by narrowing of the arteries which supply the heart muscle, resulting in reduced blood flow. Just as you can get a cramp in your leg when you exercise, angina is like a cramp of the heart muscle. Angina is not an immediate threat to life but indicates the presence of heart disease which will require treatment.
  • Heart attack: this is when the blood flow to part of the heart muscle suddenly stops. It is typically experienced as a chest pain which radiates down the left arm or up the jaw, neck and throat. Typically, a person suffering a heart attack feels a ‘sense of impending doom’. A heart attack is potentially life-threatening, and prompt treatment must be sought.
  • Cardiac arrest: this is when the heart stops beating. Cardiac arrest is a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate specialist intervention. Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) carried out properly could help keep oxygen flowing to vital organs until professional assistance is available.
  • Heart failure: this is when the heart does not function properly, meaning that blood is not properly pushed around the body. Heart failure is usually a more chronic condition but in certain circumstances can occur out of the blue. Heart failure is not usually an immediate threat to life.

Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Heart Attacks

Early diagnosis and immediate treatment are vital to limit damage and improve survival outcomes. An ECG should be performed within 10 minutes of initial medical contact to determine the type of heart attack and appropriate treatment. Measuring troponin levels upon hospital arrival also aids diagnosis.

  • STEMI Treatment: Immediate transfer for emergency PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) with stenting, ideally within 6 hours but beneficial up to 12 hours after symptoms begin.
  • NSTEMI Treatment: Typically involves blood-thinning medications like aspirin, possibly followed by angioplasty or coronary artery bypass surgery.

Risks of Delayed Treatment

Delays in diagnosis or treatment can have severe, life-altering consequences. Osbornes Law has experience supporting clients affected by delays in heart attack care.

The main problem with these statistics is that in the case of a heart attack, time to treatment is critical: the sooner treatment is given, the better the chances of a successful outcome. The study scientists estimated that if the diagnosis were made correctly and in good time, over 250 deaths per year may be prevented. What is more, if correctly diagnosed and treated in a timely fashion with correct medication and procedures, there is a 70% chance of survival.

Our Promise to You

  • We will review your potential claim by advising you on the NHS complaints procedure or other alternative procedure if your case does not relate to NHS care and treatment.
  • We will not charge a fee for our time in reviewing your case.
  • We can assist you with any issues that you may have regarding the complaints procedure or that you encounter in obtaining copies of your medical records.
  • We will advise you of the course of action in respect to your case

When you require medical attention, you expect that your problem will be properly diagnosed and treated according to National Guidelines. You certainly do not expect to have heart disease or a heart attack missed and not treated, or to be treated for a heart condition that you do not have. In cases such as these, you may be able to make a claim for medical negligence. If you think that you or a loved one has suffered due to medical negligence, get in touch with our specialist team. We are here to help.

To speak with one of our solicitors, contact us by:

  • Filling in our online enquiry form; or
  • Calling us on 020 7485 8811

FAQ related to heart diagnosis in women

Is cardiovascular disease primarily a man's health issue?

No, cardiovascular disease is actually the leading cause of death among women worldwide. Unfortunately, it has often been viewed incorrectly as a predominantly male issue, leading to women being frequently under-recognised and under-treated.

Why are women less frequently diagnosed with cardiovascular disease?

Women’s symptoms often differ from men’s, causing misdiagnosis or delays in diagnosis. Many women who visit their GP with symptoms of heart disease are mistakenly told they have anxiety or stress, even when experiencing cardiovascular symptoms at rest or during sleep.

Are women receiving adequate treatment and diagnostic tests for heart disease?

Generally, no. Research shows significant discrepancies in how men and women are diagnosed and treated. Women are less likely to receive specific diagnostic tests and treatments, leading to poorer health outcomes.

How does coronary heart disease differ between men and women?

Women typically have smaller arteries than men, causing coronary heart disease to develop and manifest differently. This biological difference can influence how effectively the disease is diagnosed and treated in women.

What can be done to improve women’s cardiovascular health outcomes?

Increasing awareness, enhancing medical training to recognise symptoms specific to women, and advocating for greater female representation in clinical research are crucial steps. Improved diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care specifically tailored to women’s health are essential.

Contact us about a Cardiac Claim

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    FAQs related to blood tests

    What is the new blood test for heart attacks?

    The new blood test, recently developed with funding from the British Heart Foundation, is more sensitive and quicker than the current Troponin test in detecting heart attack damage.

    How is the new test different from the Troponin test?

    Unlike the current Troponin test, the new blood test can more quickly identify heart attack damage and reduce the need for further intermediate-risk testing, speeding up diagnosis and treatment.

    Why is quicker diagnosis of heart attacks important?

    Rapid diagnosis is crucial for initiating timely treatment, potentially preventing deaths from missed or delayed diagnoses. Delayed or incorrect diagnoses can result in patients not receiving critical care, potentially leading to preventable deaths.

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