According to the Centers for Disease Control, someone has a heart attack in the United States every 40 seconds, accounting for 605,000 first heart attacks, and 200,000 more that occur in people who have already had at least one every year.
When healthcare providers miss the signs and symptoms of a heart attack, the patient’s treatment options and outcomes are significantly delayed and can make an early diagnosis of the difference between life and death.
If you suffered a heart attack and believe that the physician, hospital, or another professional medical facility failed to identify your risks, contact our experienced medical malpractice attorney in St. Louis today at The Gogel Law Firm to discuss the legal options available to hold the liable party accountable for your complete damages.
What are the Most Common Heart Attack Signs & Symptoms?
Obstructed coronary arteries reduce or cut off blood entering and leaving the heart, causing a shortage of oxygen that damages the muscles that pump life into the rest of the body.
Potential signs and symptoms of a heart attack require immediate medical care, and may appear in the form of one or more of the following:
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Burning sensation in the chest or throat
- Feeling sweaty, clammy, or flushed
- Sudden fatigue, sleepiness, weakness, or low energy
- Nausea or vomiting, especially when accompanied by other symptoms
- A sense of intense anxiety or impending doom
- Upper body pain or discomfort, including the shoulder, arm, back, jaw, stomach, head, or between the shoulder blades
The severity of heart attack symptoms may vary, depending on where the blockage occurs. If you believe something is wrong, seek medical care. It is always better to be safe.
Why Are Heart Attacks Commonly Misdiagnosed?
While a person who has no medical training may not know what to look for when experiencing chest pain or other symptoms, medical professionals should know to identify potential heart attack victims through their patient history, during a complete physical exam, and by quickly and effectively ordering the proper tests.
Although heart attacks are common, they are often misdiagnosed as other medical problems, including:
- Acid reflux
- Angina
- Anxiety attacks
- Bronchitis
- Esophagitis
- Gallstones
- Heartburn
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Pneumonia
Unfortunately, diagnosis errors can lead to severe consequences for patients, including delayed treatment, permanent personal injury, or even wrongful death. We can help you hold the liable party accountable for your unique recovery needs, starting with a free consultation.
Contact Our Experienced Medical Malpractice Lawyer in St. Louis, Missouri for a Free Consultation
If you believe that you did not receive care that meets the medical industry standards, your physician or the healthcare facility may have violated their legal duty and could be responsible for your resulting damages.
Contact our dedicated medical malpractice attorney in St. Louis today and allow us to review your case by calling (314) 370-8173 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
