The temperature in Tampa, Florida, can soar during summer, so heat stroke is not uncommon. Doctors and anyone under their care have to be aware of the signs and symptoms of this dangerous condition. Otherwise, severe complications and legal problems may arise.
Doctors may confuse heat stroke with other conditions
When the body’s temperature soars to 104°F (40°C) or higher, heat stroke can occur. Symptoms typically include extremely high body temperature, confusion, altered mental state, nausea, and, in severe cases, seizures.
Unfortunately, medical professionals may misdiagnose heat stroke as other conditions, such as heat exhaustion, dehydration or even a viral infection. This mistake can delay treatment, making the patient’s condition worse and in severe cases, even leading to death.
Seeking justice for your pain
If you suspect that you or a loved one has been a victim of heat stroke misdiagnosis, it is essential to act quickly and pursue a medical malpractice claim.
Florida laws require you, the claimant, to prove that the health care provider breached the prevailing professional standard of care. This means you need to show that the doctor’s actions fell below what a prudent medical professional would have done in similar circumstances.
If you take the right steps, the courts may award you financial assistance for medical expenses, the income you lost, your pain and suffering and other costs related to your situation.
There is a two-year statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims. Generally, you have two years from when you discovered the injury to file a lawsuit. A qualified attorney’s experience can be invaluable in this process.