Serious pain and unexplained symptoms can cause panic. You may be unable to work, participate in normal activities and take care of your family. When you receive an incorrect diagnosis, you may experience ongoing and worsening pain.
Understanding the severity of misdiagnosed illnesses can help you advocate for your well-being. Acting promptly can help you take control of your health before your condition becomes life-threatening.
Dangerous consequences
Not getting adequate medical help can substantially increase your risks of injury and death. In fact, according to U.S. News, a staggering 12 million people receive the wrong diagnosis each year in the United States. Serious diseases including cancer, fibromyalgia and Lyme disease can worsen at alarming rates, which may cause your body to react and shut down. Some of the dangers of a misdiagnosis may include the following:
- Delayed treatment
- Debilitating pain
- Unnecessary treatment
- Isolation
- Depression
- Death
Proactive prevention
If you suspect misdiagnosis, you should take immediate action. One thing you can do is to seek a second opinion. Provide a detailed description of your symptoms. Have a record of your medical history. Tell your doctor about the medications you take. Ask questions about your condition. These actions may encourage your health care provider to conduct a thorough examination to identify the origin of your pain.
When you visit your doctor, you should expect fair and quality treatment. If you suffer serious consequences because of a misdiagnosis, you may experience ongoing or life-threatening conditions. As a result, you may wish to take legal action. Working with an attorney, you can build a case that describes your situation with compelling evidence of your suffering.
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