Richmond Pulmonary Embolism Attorney
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins in the body. The most common area of the body to develop these blood clots is in the legs, although they sometimes form in other parts of the lower body. In some cases, the condition will resolve on its own but in certain cases, it is life-threatening. Sometimes, the blood clot will travel to other important parts of the body, usually the lungs. When this happens, it is known as a pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolisms have the potential to be fatal.
It is the responsibility of medical professionals to recognize the signs of DVT that could result in a pulmonary embolism so they can protect their patients. When they do not, they can be held liable for medical malpractice. A Richmond Pulmonary Embolism Attorney can help you recover the full damages you need.
What Places a Patient at Risk for a Pulmonary Embolism?
Some patients are more at risk for a pulmonary embolism than others. The factors that cause someone to be at greater risk for developing this serious condition include:
- Genetic conditions, such as Hughes Syndrome or thrombophilia
- Cancer and certain cancer treatments
- History of DVT
- History of heart disease
- Smoking
- Pregnancy, and the recovery period after birth
- Obesity
- Prolonged periods of inactivity
- Hormone therapy and birth control prescriptions
- Damage to the blood vessels
Doctors should always fully review a patient’s medical history to determine if they are at risk for DVT which could result in a pulmonary embolism.
Symptoms of DVT and Pulmonary Embolisms
The symptoms of DVT will gradually appear when a vein is only partially blocked. If a blood clot travels or grows quickly, symptoms may appear suddenly. In some cases, there are no symptoms at all. The most common symptoms of DVT include:
- Swelling in the arm or leg that happens gradually or suddenly
- Warmness is the leg that is painful or swollen
- Tenderness or pain in the leg or arm
- Tingling or numbness in the arm or leg
- Redness in the skin or a change of color
It is especially important that people watch for signs of a pulmonary embolism. These conditions can be fatal, so it is also important to tell a doctor as soon as they are noticed. The most common signs of a pulmonary embolism include:
- Shortness of breath, particularly when it is sudden
- Back and chest pain
- Rapid breathing and pulse
- Excessive sweating
- Low blood pressure
- Lightheadedness
Doctors should be able to recognize these signs as soon as they develop. When they do not and fail to take immediate action, they can be held liable for any harm the patient suffered or even wrongful death.
Call Our Virginia Medical Malpractice Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a doctor’s negligence in properly diagnosing and treating DVT or a pulmonary embolism, our Richmond medical malpractice lawyers at MichieHamlett are here to help. Call us today at (434) 951-7200 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
