Necrotizing fasciitis is a serious and life-threatening bacterial infection that is a complication from advanced and untreated pressure sores. While necrotizing fasciitis is a rare condition, if this condition is not recognized and treated quickly, it is almost always fatal.
Necrotizing fasciitis, or more commonly known as “flesh-eating” bacteria, is normally caused by Group A strep according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). This bacterium commonly enters the body through breaks in the skin such as through cuts and scrapes, puncture wounds, burns, surgical wounds, and in the case of nursing home residents, through pressure sores. Once a resident has this infection in their body, body tissues begin to quickly die.
Early symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis include:
- Red, swollen areas that begin to spread quickly;
- Fever;
- Severe pain including beyond the area of the wound.
Symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis can resemble other conditions so, if your loved one had recent surgery or had pressure sores present and begins to see these symptoms, it is imperative that they begin treatment immediately. Once necrotizing fasciitis has progressed, common symptoms include:
- Ulcers, blisters, and black spots on the skin;
- Color changes to the skin;
- Pus in the affected area;
- Dizziness;
- Fatigue;
- Nausea or diarrhea.
Necrotizing fasciitis requires immediate hospitalization to begin treatment. Typically, surgery and strong IV antibiotics are the first line of treatment when a doctor suspects necrotizing fasciitis. If this infection is not diagnosed and treated quickly, antibiotics may not be as effective as if treatment were begun early. When tissue and blood flow are compromised, multiple surgeries to remove the dead tissue are common.
Serious complications from necrotizing fasciitis are common and include sepsis, shock, organ failure, and amputations. Even with treatment, 1 in 3 people who are infected with necrotizing fasciitis will die. Necrotizing fasciitis is not common, but there are certain demographics more at-risk for developing this deadly infection. The people at highest risk for necrotizing fasciitis include:
- Those dealing with malnutrition or dehydration;
- Those that are immobile;
- Those with preexisting medical conditions that affect blood flow;
- Those with conditions that weaken the immune system such as cancer, cirrhosis, diabetes, and kidney disease.
Pressure sores increase the risk for developing necrotizing fasciitis, so it is important that caregivers and nursing home staff understand the risks of developing pressure sores, the signs and symptoms of both pressure sores and necrotizing fasciitis, and the necessity for swift treatment of any open wound.
If your loved one suffered from necrotizing fasciitis while under the care of a nursing home, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to discuss your case.
If you believe a loved one has been abused or neglected at a long-term care facility, contact America’s Consumer Lawyer, for a free consultation. We are a Chicago injury law firm representing individuals and families who have suffered an injury or loss due to an accident. America’s Consumer Lawyer, will handle your personal injury case quickly, will advise you every step of the way, and will not hesitate to go to trial for you.
Lastly, America’s Consumer Lawyer, does not get paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. Therefore, you have nothing to risk when you hire us–just the opportunity to seek justice.
