Oregon patients suffering from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis often find that they have trouble breathing, which could affect their ability to live a normal life. An online survey that was conducted by a German pharmaceutical company offered a look at the emotions that many patients suffering from IPF feel once they receive their diagnosis.
Around 3 million people worldwide are estimated to suffer from IPF, which results in scarred and thickened lung tissue. Because the disease has signs and symptoms that are often associated with other lung diseases or disorders, many patients are often misdiagnosed or receive a delayed diagnosis. The survey revealed that the participants felt a wide range of emotions once they actually received their diagnosis. In addition to fear, frustration and confusion, approximately 23 percent became worried that the shortness of breath caused by the disease would prevent them from being able to complete tasks that they had in the past.
The survey also questioned the patients once they began receiving treatment. According to the survey, 31 percent had a much more positive outlook. However, 28 percent had a negative outlook post-treatment. Having an understanding of the emotions that many patients feel after the diagnosis and after treatment means that doctors can better discuss what patients can expect and help them work through any negative emotions they may have.
If one doctor fails to diagnose a disease or disorder that another competent doctor could diagnose, the patient may want to seek compensation from the negligent physician. An attorney can review the patient’s medical records and obtain the opinion of experts in order to establish that such failure constituted medical malpractice.