There are many different types of pneumonia, but of all of them, Legionnaires' disease is one of the most serious. Legionnaires' disease is caused by the legionella bacteria, which can be found in water and soil. Most people who are exposed to legionella bacteria do not become sick. Tragically, for approximately 10% of people, Legionnaires' disease is fatal. Sometimes, people cannot avoid contracting the disease. In other cases, though, it is entirely preventable. Legionnaires' disease is often contracted due to another person’s carelessness, or negligence. In these instances, our Sunnyvale Legionnaires' disease lawyer can identify the property owner or other party who is at fault, and hold them accountable for paying full damages.
What are the Symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease?Left untreated, Legionnaires' disease always has the potential to become fatal. For this reason, it is critical that everyone understands the most common symptoms associated with Legionnaires' disease, so they can receive the treatment they need right away. The most common symptoms experienced within the first two days are as follows:
After the second day, the symptoms of Legionnaires' disease become much worse. Symptoms experienced after this time may include:
The good news is that not everyone will become sick with Legionnaires' disease after being exposed. Individuals who are more susceptible to the disease include heavy smokers and those who used to smoke, along with people who are over the age of 50, and those who suffer from chronic lung disease, such as asthma. If you or a loved one has been recently diagnosed, reach out to a Legionnaires’ disease attorney in Sunnyvale.
How is Legionnaires' Disease Diagnosed and Treated?Legionnaires' disease is relatively easy to diagnose through a physical exam, chest x-rays, and different types of laboratory tests. Urinary antigen tests are particularly helpful when doctors make a Legionnaires' diagnosis.
Once Legionnaires' disease has been diagnosed, the condition is also relatively easy to treat using antibiotics. Antibiotics attack and destroy the legionella bacteria in the system, with most patients making a full recovery in ten days. Although antibiotics are very effective, they do not always help. In these instances, hospital admittance is usually required and sometimes, additional treatment in the Intensive Care Unit is required.
People do not typically experience additional symptoms after recovering from Legionnaires' disease, unless they become exposed to the bacteria in the future. In rarer cases, though, people may experience long-term respiratory issues even after their symptoms have disappeared.
Call Our Legionnaires' Disease Lawyer in Sunnyvale for Advice on Your ClaimIf you have contracted Legionnaires' disease and it was the fault of someone else, you may be legally entitled to financial compensation. At Brod Law Firm, our Sunnyvale Legionnaires' disease attorney can help you determine who the liable party is, so you obtain the full damages you deserve. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or reach out to us online to schedule a free review of your case.