A cancer diagnosis is extremely heartbreaking for many. However, if caught early enough, there are many options, and the chances of overcoming the diagnosis may be higher. But, if you learn that the cancer is too far along due to the failure of the doctor to detect the illness, you may be left with very few options. You shouldn’t have to suffer in silence due to the neglect of your provider. Keep reading to learn why this happens and how a Houston, Texas misdiagnosis of breast cancer lawyer can help represent you in a lawsuit.
Why Are Breast Cancer Misdiagnoses Common?
Unfortunately, there are a number of reasons that a breast cancer diagnosis is common. One of the main causes is that a mammogram can come back clear, despite the woman insisting that she has felt a lump in her breast that raised concern. While they are an extremely valuable tool, women with dense breasts are more likely to receive a false-negative, even if there is a mass in the breast. Also, if the doctor does not perform the test or interpret the results correctly, it can lead to a misdiagnosis.
Similarly, doctors will consider age and familiar history, which can lead to a delayed mammogram, even after a woman has reached the age at which it is recommended to receive the screening. If you have a mass that a doctor refuses to follow up on, this can constitute medical malpractice.
What Happens if a Doctor Fails to Detect Breast Cancer?
If a doctor fails to diagnose breast cancer, you can suffer several consequences. These include:
- Unnecessary medical procedures and medication
- An increased risk of death
- Higher medical bills for prolonged treatment
- Time missed from work due to delayed treatment
- Unnecessary pain and suffering from a subsequent misdiagnosis
Unfortunately, the effects of living with untreated breast cancer can be severe. Not only can the illness get worse when it goes undetected, but you also risk further injury from necessary producers and taking medication for a condition you are not suffering from.
Can I File a Lawsuit if a Doctor Did Not Diagnose Me?
If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of a doctor failing to diagnose your breast cancer, you should reach out to an attorney as soon as possible. Though you will likely be recovering from the illness, you only have two years to file a lawsuit against the party or parties responsible for your pain and suffering.
At Davis & Davis, we understand how challenging it can be to deal with a medical malpractice claim. As a result, we are dedicated to doing everything in our power to help you receive the justice you deserve. Reach out today to connect with a competent attorney to discuss the details of your case.