When you take medications, you are given a list of possible side effects, but in some cases, you may not be told of one serious potential complication — developing Stevens-Johnson Syndrome. Although Stevens-Johnson Syndrome is a relatively rare condition, it can be devastating if it does occur.
If you’ve taken a medication and suffered this syndrome, you may be able to file a personal injury claim to hold the medication’s manufacturer responsible. Learn more about the condition and how a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyer can help.
What Is Stevens-Johnson Syndrome?
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a severe skin peeling condition that usually occurs because of infections or allergic reactions to medications. This condition causes your skin to develop rashes and blisters, followed by peeling. It typically affects children and people under 30, but it can occur in anyone, including the elderly.
The Dangers of SJS
SJS can impact your skin as well as your mucus membranes. Your eyes, genitals, and mouth can be affected, causing serious pain and putting you at risk of life-threatening infections. You can experience:
- Body aches
- Rash
- Blisters and sores
- Cough
- Fever
- Skin pain
- Swollen and blistered eyes
- Painful urination
Your organs can also be affected. The liver, kidneys, and lungs tend to be the ones most impacted, potentially leading to organ failure that puts your life at risk.
Causes of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
SJS is most commonly the result of an adverse reaction to a medication. Any drug has the potential to cause it, but the ones that are more likely to do so are antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and anticonvulsants. Vaccinations might also cause SJS.
Infections can trigger the problem as well. Pneumonia, herpes, hepatitis A, HIV, and graft-versus-host can all cause SJS.
The Importance of Early Treatment
SJS is a dangerous condition that can quickly overwhelm the body, leading to life-threatening infections, organ failure, and many other complications. When the skin starts to peel off, the risks increase significantly, requiring care in burn units and ERs to prevent shock and the development of sepsis.
Long-Term Complications of SJS
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome can result in a number of complications, including scarring. Your skin may develop bumps and discolorations, and you could suffer permanent hair loss. Some people lose their fingernails, too.
If SJS isn’t treated quickly enough, you can also suffer damage to your eyes. The inflammation can result in long-term impairment, though blindness is rare.
Organ failure is another possible complication that can occur as a result of sepsis. This could require organ transplants.
The Importance of SJS Awareness
Although it’s a rare condition, SJS can be very serious. Understanding whether you’re more likely to develop the condition can ensure you remain vigilant when you take new medications. By watching for the most common signs of SJS, you can act quickly and receive the necessary care before the symptoms progress to dangerous levels.
How Legal Action Can Help if You Developed Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
If you took medications that led to the development of SJS or other catastrophic injuries, you may be entitled to file a claim against the manufacturer. With a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome attorney representing you, you can gather the medical records, expert testimonies, and other evidence you need to show that the medications were to blame.
A personal injury claim can help you recover the losses you experienced because of the manufacturer’s negligence.
FAQ
How Is SJS Treated?
Most cases of SJS will require hospital care. You will receive fluids and antibiotics to prevent infections, as well as pain medication. Your care team will identify the medication that caused the problem to ensure you don’t use it again.
Can SJS Be Fatal?
Yes. If SJS is not caught in time, it can cause systemwide sepsis, leading to organ failure, shock, and death.
Can You Receive Compensation for Pain and Suffering After SJS?
Yes. Filing a lawsuit against the manufacturer of the drug that led to SJS allows you to claim financial losses like medical expenses as well as non-financial ones, like pain and suffering.
Trust Experienced Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Lawyers With Your Claim
If you developed SJS as a result of a medication that didn’t carry a warning of this potential risk, you may be entitled to file a claim against the manufacturer. At Dunn Sheehan, our team of product liability attorneys has years of experience helping people with pharmaceutical litigation.
Contact our team to schedule a free consultation.