Diabetes is a serious problem in the United States. Approximately 7.8 percent of the total U.S. population are affected by this disease. According to the American Diabetes Association, recent studies have shown that early detection of diabetes symptoms and treatment can reduce the risk of developing complications associated with diabetes. However, it has been estimated that as many as 6.3 million people suffer from undiagnosed diabetes.
Diabetes is a medical condition in which the body fails to produce insulin or improperly uses it. Insulin is defined as the hormone used to convert starches, sugar and other food into energy. No one knows the exact cause of diabetes, but genetics and environmental factors are believed to be associated with the development of this disease.
When a doctor fails to diagnose diabetes, the outcome for the patient can be tragic. Undiagnosed or misdiagnosed diabetes can result in heart disease, loss of sight, stroke and even amputation of a limb. In some rare cases, undiagnosed diabetes can lead to death. Children are often victims of undiagnosed diabetes and the number of children with type 2 diabetes who are overweight has increased significantly over the years.
Diabetes may go undiagnosed due to the harmless symptoms associated with this condition. Some diabetes symptoms include frequent urination, excessive hunger, extreme thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision and irritability.
An undiagnosed diabetes case may be considered to be Kentucky malpractice. A physician can be held responsible for medical malpractice when he or she deviates from the accepted standard of care. Doctors are supposed to follow a specific process when diagnosing a patient and when these medical providers are negligent, they can be liable for any injuries or damages incurred by the patient.
If you suspect that you or a family member has been harmed by a case of undiagnosed diabetes, contact a Louisville medical malpractice lawyer at Gray and White Law today at 1-502-210-8942 or 1-888-450-4456 (toll-free). The consultation is free.
Sometimes it is difficult to identify an undiagnosed diabetes case, which is why it is crucial that you contact a Louisville medical malpractice attorney immediately for legal advice.