Stroke

Overlooking the Signs

Stroke is a medical emergency where every minute counts. Quick diagnosis and immediate treatment can prevent brain damage, preserve independence, and save lives. When a stroke is misdiagnosed or mistaken for a less serious condition, the consequences can be devastating. Patients may be discharged or left untreated, only to suffer worsening neurological damage, permanent disability, or death.

Time Is Brain

The sooner a stroke is correctly identified and treated, the greater the chance of minimizing long-term harm.

A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked (ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel ruptures (hemorrhagic stroke). Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die within minutes. Early intervention can restore blood flow, limit brain injury, and reduce the risk of lifelong impairment.

Treatments such as clot-busting medication (tPA) or mechanical thrombectomy must be given within a narrow window, often within hours of symptom onset. Delays can permanently alter the patient’s life.

Common Medical Mistakes

Strokes are frequently misdiagnosed, especially in emergency departments. Symptoms may be subtle or attributed to other causes, such as migraines, vertigo, intoxication, or anxiety. This is especially true for younger patients, women, or those presenting with atypical symptoms.

Common diagnostic errors include failing to perform or properly interpret neurological exams or imaging (CT or MRI); dismissing early warning signs such as confusion, dizziness, slurred speech, or weakness; misattributing symptoms to alcohol, drug use, or psychological issues; failing to consider stroke in patients with atypical risk profiles; and inadequate triage, monitoring, or timely referral to a stroke team.

Here to Help

Our firm has significant experience in handling medical negligence cases involving stroke. We work with top neurologists and emergency medicine experts to evaluate whether appropriate care was provided and whether earlier diagnosis could have made a difference. If you or a loved one has suffered serious harm due to a missed or delayed stroke diagnosis, we are here to help you understand your options and pursue justice.