What are the long term effects of cauda equina syndrome if it is not treated quickly enough, the individual in question will be left with permanent neurological complications.
Permanent cauda equina complications
Cauda equina syndrome is when the nerves at the bottom of the spinal cord are compressed and damaged, causing them to lose function. If the compression is not relieved quickly enough, the injury will be so extensive that the nerve root cells die. Once this happens the effects will be long-lasting because root cells cannot regenerate.
When the cauda equina nerves are irreparably harmed, their function will be permanently compromised. The long term effects of cauda equina syndrome are that these nerves, which serve the bladder, bowel, legs and peri-anal region, become permanently damaged causing loss of function and sensation. More specifically, the long term effects of cauda equina syndrome include:-
- Loss of bladder function and control, with the inability to empty the bladder. This can lead to urinary retention, urinary incontinence and the need for a catheter.
- Loss of bowel function and reduced anal tone, resulting in episodes of faecal incontinence. A colostomy bag may be required. On the other hand strong painkillers can also cause constipation.
- Loss of sexual function, including the loss of sensation in the genitalia and the inability to achieve an erection or an orgasm.
- Loss of sensation in the perineum, genitalia and buttocks, including the loss of sensation in the urethra when urinating.
- Loss of leg function, which may be partial or total.
- Chronic pain in the lower back, leg(s) and buttocks.
Coping with the long term effects of cauda equina syndrome
These long term complications will of course be extremely difficult to cope with. They are severe enough to turn anyone’s life upside down, especially if there is an element of paralysis.
Loss of sexual function can be very trying for those in a relationship, while many will be embarrassed about the sight of a catheter or colostomy bag. Many give up any social life they once had for fear of suffering an episode of incontinence in public, and because their confidence has been irreparably knocked.
All this can lead to devastating psychological problems, with depression and agoraphobia being common conditions in those with cauda equina complications.
Compensation for the long term effects of cauda equina syndrome
Dealing with these problems will be even harder if medical error is to blame. Indeed, there are unfortunately times when a patient is left with complications, and yet these could have been avoided had doctors made a timely diagnosis and provided urgent treatment. Yet because of medical incompetence a diagnosis is not made and/or treatment delayed, resulting in long term neurological side-effects.
If this is something that has happened to you or your loved one, you need to speak to a solicitor about claiming compensation.
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