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Misdiagnosed irritable bowel syndrome IBS claims

If you have suffered due to a misdiagnosed irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) condition, Stephensons Solicitors LLP can help you secure the compensation and justice you deserve. Our experienced medical negligence lawyers understand the devastating impact a misdiagnosis can have on your life, health and wellbeing, and are committed to helping you hold medical professionals accountable for avoidable errors.

 

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What is misdiagnosed irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive condition affecting individuals in various ways. Typical symptoms include stomach cramps, abdominal discomfort, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. While IBS can significantly disrupt daily life, it is not typically life-threatening.

However, these symptoms closely resemble those of more serious medical conditions, including bowel cancer, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, or ovarian cancer. A misdiagnosed IBS condition occurs when a healthcare professional incorrectly diagnoses IBS without adequately investigating more serious, underlying medical conditions. A misdiagnosis can delay necessary treatment, cause unnecessary suffering, and may even reduce treatment effectiveness if a more serious condition progresses unchecked.

Can you claim compensation for misdiagnosed irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

If you have experienced a misdiagnosis of IBS which led to worsening health problems, delayed treatment, or prolonged suffering, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

To successfully pursue a claim, it must be demonstrated that:-

  • Breach of Duty - The healthcare professional or institution acted negligently by failing to conduct appropriate investigations, tests, or referrals.
  • Causation - It must also be proven that this negligence directly contributed to your suffering or worsened your medical outcome.

Stephensons' specialist medical negligence solicitors will review your case thoroughly, consulting with independent medical experts to establish a robust claim and ensure you have the best chance of obtaining the compensation you deserve.

Why choose us to handle your IBS misdiagnosis claim?

Stephensons are recognised experts in medical negligence claims, with decades of experience representing clients across the UK. Our renowned team includes specialist solicitors accredited by respected industry bodies such as the Law Society's Clinical Negligence Accreditation Scheme, the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL), and AVMA (Action against Medical Accidents).

Our client-focused approach ensures you will receive clear, compassionate support at every stage of the legal process. We understand how stressful and difficult these situations can be and strive to minimise any distress, guiding you through the complexities of medical negligence claims with clarity and professionalism.

Stephensons offer flexible legal funding options, including conditional fee agreements ('no win, no fee'), ensuring you can pursue your claim without financial worry.

How we can help with your IBS misdiagnosis claim

From the moment you contact us, one of our specialist solicitors will confidentially and sensitively listen to your situation, providing initial advice on your potential claim. Once instructed, we handle your claim thoroughly and proactively, including:

  • Requesting and reviewing medical records
  • Consulting independent medical experts to support your claim
  • Gathering evidence of negligence and its impact on your health
  • Calculating the compensation you're entitled to, covering pain and suffering, loss of earnings, medical treatment and ongoing care
  • Negotiating with healthcare providers and their insurers to secure an agreeable settlement, or if required, representing you robustly in court

Our dedicated team will keep you fully updated throughout your claim, ensuring you always understand the process and the next steps. Stephensons are determined to achieve the best possible outcome, providing you with support, transparency and reassurance from start to finish.

Contact Stephensons to discuss your IBS misdiagnosis claim today

If your IBS has been misdiagnosed and you have suffered as a result, contact Stephensons today for expert advice. Call us on 0161 696 6165 or fill in our online enquiry form for a call back. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case in confidence and without obligation.

Frequently asked questions - misdiagnosed IBS claims

How long do I have to make an IBS misdiagnosis claim?

In line with standard medical negligence claims, according to the Limitation Act 1980, the general time limit for making a compensation claim related to misdiagnosed irritable bowel syndrome in the UK is three years from the date of negligence occurrence or three years from the date you became aware of negligence causing harm (often known as the "date of knowledge"). However, exceptions do exist in specific circumstances, including:

  • If the claimant is under the age of 18, the three-year limitation period begins on their 18th birthday, expiring at age 21.
  • If the claimant lacks mental capacity, the time limitation may potentially be extended indefinitely until the claimant regains capacity.
  • If the alleged defendant agrees to a limitation extension, and/or the Court approves an extension in specific circumstances at its own discretion.

Although three years may seem sufficient, we strongly recommend contacting Stephensons as early as possible after the negligence event occurs. Prompt legal action allows our solicitors maximum opportunity for evidence collection, expert advice, and achieving successful outcomes.

How much compensation could I receive?

Compensation amounts vary considerably based on injury severity, the impact of negligence on your health and finances, and other individual circumstances. Compensation typically falls into two categories:

  • General Damages - Compensation awarded for your physical and psychological pain, suffering, and loss of amenity. This is assessed based on the extent, seriousness, and duration of your injuries or illness caused by negligence.
  • Special Damages - These damages comprise compensation for financial losses incurred in the past and/or future due to negligence, including loss of earnings, medical expenses, travel costs, gratuitous care requirements, rehabilitation expenses, home adaptations, and any other related financial losses.

Will I have to go to court?

Most medical negligence claims are settled without the need for court proceedings. However, if court action is necessary, our experienced solicitors will provide full support, guidance and representation throughout this process.

Can I make a claim on behalf of someone else?

Yes, you may be able to make a claim on behalf of a child, someone who lacks mental capacity, or a loved one who has passed away as a result of a misdiagnosis. Our solicitors will advise you further on your individual situation.

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