Cauda equina syndrome can result in devastating neurological complications. This can have a profound effect upon every aspect of a person’s life, including their personal relationships.
Cauda equina complications
If cauda equina syndrome is not treated quickly enough, the patient will be left with permanent neurological problems. This will vary from person to person, but most will experience:-
- Difficulty walking/paralysis
- Loss of sensation in the buttocks and genital area
- Loss of sexual function
- Urinary dysfunction
- Bowel dysfunction
These complications are life-changing. A once healthy individual will suddenly face a lifetime of pain and disability, a reality that often leads to further psychological injury.
The physical and emotional injuries associated with cauda equina syndrome can impact upon every area of a person’s life. A cauda equina sufferer may no longer be able to participate in hobbies, continue to work or even travel alone. But perhaps one of the most common difficulties is the effects cauda equina syndrome can have upon relationships.
Effects upon relationships
Sadly, many cauda equina sufferers experience the breakdown of a relationship, either with a partner or a husband/wife. This is because the nature of cauda equina complications put tremendous strain upon each party, often causing them to drift apart.
For example, the cauda equina sufferer may feel embarrassed about needing to self-catheterise and may also experience a degree of faecal incontinence. This may cause the person to push their partner away.
Furthermore, if sexual function or sensation is absent, the intimate aspect of a relationship will be lost, which many couples have troubling dealing with.
The psychological injuries can also contribute towards the breakdown of a relationship, as the cauda equina sufferer may develop depression, anxiety and agoraphobia. Consequently they can no longer lead the life they once did, resulting in frustration for both parties.
And it is not just relationships with partners that can breakdown. Cauda equina sufferers also report losing touch with friends and even family, as they do not want to participate in social events due to the pain or fear of having an accident.
Cauda equina claims
If you are making a cauda equina claim, the pain and suffering you have experienced will be reflected in your compensation settlement. This includes the breakdown of any relationships that have happened as a direct result of your injuries.
To make a cauda equina claim, you must be able to establish that your injury was caused as a direct result of medical negligence. To find out if you can claim, get in touch with us today and speak to a lawyer.