According to the National Stroke Association, approximately 55,000 more women than men suffer from a stroke every year. This makes it especially critical for women over age 55 (as well as those of any age who are pregnant, taking birth control, or undergoing hormone therapy) to learn and recognize the signs of a stroke.
Universal Symptoms of Stroke
Regardless of gender, people who are experiencing a stroke may have sudden onset of symptoms such as:
- Weakness or numbness of the face, arms, or legs, especially if this occurs on one side of the body
- Confusion
- Difficulty communicating
- Difficulty seeing out of either or both eyes
- Severe, painful headache
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of coordination
Women Experience Distinct Symptoms of Ischemic Stroke
Women who experience stroke also tend to experience additional symptoms, such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Disorientation
- Fainting
- General pain and weakness
- Hallucinations
- Hiccups
- Nausea
- Seizures
- Sudden changes in personality, mood, or behavior, such as irritability
- Vomiting
Doctors and emergency medical responders are trained to quickly identify and treat strokes, and their failure to do so can be disastrous for women who seek medical attention while exhibiting early signs of a stroke. Such oversight or failure to respond in a timely manner to stroke symptoms can amount to medical malpractice. As such, women who suffer a stroke that could have been mitigated or prevented through appropriate action by a medical professional may be able to take legal action to hold the responsible party accountable and recover compensation for related damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and more.
Legal Representation for Victims of Untreated Stroke
At Golomb Legal, P.C., we represent men and women who have suffered the consequences of a stroke that could have been avoided through appropriate care by doctors and other medical staff. Connect with a member of our team to schedule your first meeting with a Philadelphia medical malpractice attorney.
Call (215) 278-4449 now to learn how we can help.