Red Flag Signs & Symptoms

Cauda Equina Syndrome is a rare but very serious and life changing medical condition. There are several red flag signs and symptoms which if a patient presents with to their GP or other health care professional, should lead them to consider a very serious condition with potential to require immediate medical attention.

Unfortunately, there is a lack of understanding and awareness among the medical profession about the red flag signs and symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome. The consequences of this are that patients can suffer a delay in diagnosis and treatment, resulting in poorer outcomes and life changing injuries.

A patient suffering Cauda Equina Syndrome may present with one of, or a combination of the following red flag signs & symptoms:

1. Saddle Anaesthesia;
2. Bladder disturbance;
3. Bowel disturbance;
4. Sexual Problems;
5. Nerve root pain.

 
There are various presentations of the above signs and symptoms and it is vital that when speaking with healthcare professionals they are aware of any change experienced by a patient and when the patient noticed a change occurred.
 
For example, saddle anesthesia can affect individuals in different ways and a patient may experience only one or a combination of the following problems:

• Loss of feeling between the legs;
• Numbness in the genital and back passage area;
• Reduced sensation or complete loss of being able to feel oneself wipe when going to the toilet;
• Weakness or tingling in the saddle area.

 
If a patient experiences any of the above red flag signs or symptoms, they should seek urgent medical advice from their GP or nearest hospital. It would also be worthwhile mentioning any concerns about Cauda Equina Syndrome to your GP or hospital.
 
Can I make a medical negligence claim if there has been a delay in diagnosing and treating Cauda Equina Syndrome?
 
If you have attended upon a treating clinician displaying any of the red flag signs and symptoms of CES and were not urgently referred to an appropriate clinician or hospital for investigations and treatment, you may be able to make a medical negligence claim for financial compensation.
 
Our specialist team can offer advice on a no-obligation basis. After having an initial consultation with you, our team will assess whether you may have a potential medical negligence claim.
 
If you then decide that you would like to proceed with a claim we have a range of funding options available including a No-Win, No-Fee Agreement supported, if appropriate, by legal expenses insurance.
 
Do not delay – contact us now to see if you have a potential medical negligence claim.