If your cauda equina syndrome was not diagnosed in time, it is likely that you are experiencing problems with urinating.
Urinary problems with cauda equina syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome can affect the sufferer in a number of ways but most people will experience some degree of difficulty with their urinary function. This can be to a lesser or greater extent:
- It may be that they have to strain in order to urinate and have difficulty emptying their bladder
- They may have lost the sensation of needing to urinate and find that they have wet themselves without realising
- They may suffer with urinary tract infections due to incomplete emptying of the bladder
- They may need to self-catheterise in order to ensure the bladder is empty and to prevent incontinence
Urinary problems indicative of cauda equina syndrome
Urinary function is key to the diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome. Alteration of urinary function is an indication that the patient may be developing a problem with their cauda equina nerves. It is at this point that the patient requires an emergency MRI scan and, if a diagnosis is confirmed, emergency surgery.
What causes bladder problems?
A patient suffering with either incomplete or complete cauda equina syndrome is likely to experience problems with their urinary function due to the compression of nerves at the base of the spine.
The nerves which recognise the sensation of needing to urinate and which also control the function of urinating can become squashed due to pressure in the lower spinal region, affecting the cauda equina nerves. This may affect their ability to function slightly or completely.
Recovering urinary function
If the patient receives decompression surgery before they lose their urinary sensation, it is possible that they will recover urinary function completely. If surgery is delayed, however, it is more likely that their loss of function will be permanent.
Other symptoms of cauda equina syndrome
The compression of the cauda equina nerves can cause other unpleasant symptoms in the lower body:
- Bowel dysfunction causing wind and faecal incontinence
- Sexual dysfunction
- Reduced mobility and foot drop
Medical Negligence
It can be seen from the above that the long-term effects of cauda equina syndrome can be not only distressing but significantly life-limiting. Many people who suffer with this condition find that living independently and maintaining a career becomes impossible.
Where the severity of the patient’s outcome is thought to be due to a delay in diagnosing or treating the condition, it may be appropriate for the patient to consider making a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you are suffering with the appalling effects of cauda equina syndrome due to a delay in the diagnosis process, contact us to discuss your experience with a specialist medical negligence solicitor.