Acupuncture Pneumothorax: California Lawsuits for Collapsed Lungs Due to Acupuncture

People across the U.S. use acupuncture for various reasons, including treating pain and managing stress. Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin, long needles into specific points of your body. While most experts tout acupuncture as a low-risk, high-reward treatment, some patients have reported significant issues after receiving acupuncture.

If you suffered an acupuncture injury, Silva Injury Law is here to help. One of our attorneys can assist you every step of the way as we fight to secure a favorable outcome in your case. In addition, Silva Injury Law does not charge personal injury victims an upfront fee to handle their claims. We offer a free in-person or remote consultation to determine if you might be eligible to receive compensation.

If we accept your case, you will not pay us a penny until we collect a judgment or settlement on your behalf. Not to mention, we will also advance the costs of your case. If you recover compensation, we take a percentage of that amount for our fee. We believe our duty goes beyond achieving significant monetary awards for our clients. We strive first to be decent human beings who seek not to stir up fights but to solve problems. Contact Silva Injury Law today so we can start reviewing your case.

What Is Pneumothorax?

Pneumothorax is another word for a collapsed lung. A lung can collapse when it is punctured by a sharp object, such as an acupuncture needle. Anyone suffering from pneumothorax needs immediate medical attention. Signs and symptoms of pneumothorax include:

  • Chest pain when taking a breath,
  • Constant coughing,
  • Fast-paced breathing,
  • Excessive fatigue,
  • Shortness of breath,
  • Fast heart rate, and
  • Blue-ish colored skin.

If you believe you suffered a collapsed lung caused by during acupuncture therapy, you should seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Severe pneumothorax can even require surgery. After you seek medical treatment, contact Silva Injury Law to discuss your potential acupuncture pneumothorax lawsuit.

Are Collapsed Lungs Common Acupuncture Injuries?

Acupuncture needles should not pierce your lungs. Unfortunately, acupuncturists can make mistakes. In 2019, a woman in New Zealand suffered bilateral pneumothoraces after undergoing acupuncture treatments for arm and wrist pain. Two needles were inserted near her shoulders, and she experienced immediate shortness of breath and severe pain in her chest. The woman stated she told the acupuncturist she felt “stuffy” and was having a strange and painful “air” sensation around her lungs. The woman left the treatment center and later went to the hospital. An investigation determined the acupuncturist was at fault for failing to disclose the risk of pneumothroax during acupuncture treatments.

Pneumothorax caused by acupuncture is not a new phenomenon. In 2004, two acupuncturists were sued for allegedly causing needle-induced pneumothorax in several patients who received treatments between 2000 and 2004.

Long-Term Consequences Of Acupuncture Injuries

Pneumothorax can result in a number of consequences after the initial injury. Some of these complications can be life-threatening. These complications may include:

  • Pneumohemothorax, when blood enters the chest cavity;
  • Pneumopericardium, when air enters the tissue sac around the heart;
  • Respiratory failure or inability to breathe;
  • Pulmonary edema following treatment for pneumothorax;
  • Pneumoperitoneum, when air enters the abdominal cavity;
  • Bronchopulmonary fistula, when a passageway opens between the lungs and the space around them; and
  • Heart attack.

It is essential to seek treatment as soon as you notice symptoms of pneumothorax to help avoid these types of long-term and, in some cases, life-threatening issues.

If an acupuncturist punctures your lung and causes pneumothorax, they could be liable for any damages you incur as a result of that injury. That includes any hospital bills related to treatment for pneumothorax and any associated complications.

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WONDERING IF YOU QUALIFY TO FILE A PNEUMOTHORAX LAWSUIT? CONTACT SILVA INJURY LAW TODAY

Suffering injuries as a result of acupuncture malpractice is often a confusing and troubling experience for victims.

The attorneys at Silva Injury Law can navigate the complicated legal process while you focus on your recovery. We know that a one-size-fits-all case strategy does not work. That is why we take the time to learn the facts of your case and determine what strategy gives you the best chance of recovering the maximum settlement you deserve. We pride ourselves on promoting healing through compassionate advocacy. When you hire our team, you will get much more than an attorney looking to make money. Instead, we will offer a team of knowledgeable, experienced, and caring professionals who will always have your best interests in mind. Contact us to start your free consultation and learn how we can help you.

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