Common Injuries Linked to Dangerous Drugs
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are designed to help people manage health conditions, alleviate symptoms, or cure illnesses. However, not all drugs are safe. Some medications, whether through manufacturing defects, improper labeling, or dangerous side effects, can cause severe harm to patients. Dangerous drugs can lead to a wide range of injuries, and recognizing the symptoms early on is crucial for protecting your health and pursuing legal action with Mainor Ellis in Las Vegas if necessary.
Organ Damage
One of the most serious side effects of dangerous drugs is organ damage, particularly to the liver and kidneys. These organs are responsible for filtering and processing medications, and when they are exposed to harmful substances, they can suffer irreversible damage. Certain medications, including painkillers, antibiotics, and cholesterol-lowering drugs, are known to cause liver or kidney toxicity.
Signs and Symptoms:
Patients who experience liver damage may notice symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain. Kidney damage, on the other hand, may present as swelling in the legs and feet, changes in urination patterns, confusion, and high blood pressure.
If you are taking a prescription or over-the-counter drug and begin to experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Organ damage can progress rapidly and lead to life-threatening complications.
Strokes
Certain dangerous drugs have been linked to an increased risk of strokes, particularly in patients with pre-existing conditions. Blood thinners, hormonal medications, and some diet drugs can raise the risk of blood clots, which may lead to strokes. Strokes occur when the blood supply to the brain is blocked or interrupted, causing brain cells to die.
Signs and Symptoms:
The symptoms of a stroke typically include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, loss of balance, and vision problems. Strokes are medical emergencies, and the faster treatment is received, the better the chances of recovery.
If you or a loved one experiences stroke-like symptoms after taking medication, it is important to report the issue to your healthcare provider immediately and consult with a personal injury attorney about your legal options.
Heart Issues
Heart-related injuries are another common risk associated with dangerous drugs. Some medications, such as certain anti-inflammatory drugs, diabetes medications, and weight loss drugs, have been found to increase the risk of heart attacks, arrhythmias, and other cardiovascular issues.
Signs and Symptoms:
Heart problems may present as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or an irregular heartbeat. In severe cases, patients may experience a full cardiac arrest, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Patients who suffer heart attacks or other heart-related issues after taking a prescription drug should seek medical attention and consult with an attorney to determine if the medication may be responsible for their condition.
Recognizing the Risks and Taking Action
At Mainor Ellis, our Las Vegas Dangerous Drugs Injury Lawyers specialize in representing clients who have suffered injuries from dangerous drugs. If you or a loved one has experienced organ damage, strokes, heart issues, or other injuries linked to medication, we can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Source:
fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/2024-drug-safety-communications