NOTE: Our law firm does not handle medical malpractice cases. This article is for informational purposes only. Information found in the article does not constitute as formal legal advice and does not create an attorney/client relationship.
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Understanding Preeclampsia and Eclampsia
Preeclampsia is a potentially life-threatening condition that typically develops after the 20th week of gestation. It involves elevated blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine. If left untreated, preeclampsia can progress to eclampsia, which causes seizures and endangers both the mother and baby.
Common warning signs include:
- Severe headaches
- Vision changes, such as blurring or seeing spots
- Swelling in the hands, feet, or face
- Sudden weight gain
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting in later pregnancy
Failure to recognize and treat these symptoms can lead to serious complications, including liver or kidney damage, placental abruption, stroke, or stillbirth. The only definitive treatment is delivery. In some cases, careful monitoring may buy time. But when the mother’s health is at risk, delay can be deadly.
Medical Negligence in Preeclampsia and Eclampsia Cases
When doctors and nurses overlook basic standards of care, they can be held legally responsible. Many of these failures stem from neglecting standard prenatal protocols.
Examples of negligent care include:
- Failure to monitor maternal blood pressure during checkups
- Not ordering urine tests to check for protein
- Ignoring patient complaints such as headaches or swelling
- Delaying hospitalization despite warning signs
- Postponing necessary delivery when danger becomes apparent
- Failure to refer the patient to a maternal-fetal specialist
How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit in Maryland?
Maryland law sets strict deadlines for filing medical malpractice claims. In most cases, you must file your lawsuit within three years from the date you knew or should have known about the injury. However, there is a five-year maximum deadline from the date the malpractice actually occurred.
Preeclampsia and eclampsia are serious medical conditions that demand close monitoring and prompt action. If your doctor ignored your symptoms or failed to act in time, you may have a valid medical malpractice claim. These cases require attorneys who understand both the legal and medical landscape.
You placed your trust in medical professionals during one of the most vulnerable times in your life. If that trust was violated through negligence or inaction, you have legal options.
If you believe you have a medical malpractice claim, call us. We can refer you to a lawyer who handles these cases.