Finding out you’ve been diagnosed with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is never easy, especially if you’ve been dealing with symptoms for a very long time without any answers. Because many of the symptoms of SJS are similar to other common conditions – such as the flu – it is one of the most widely misdiagnosed illnesses out there. SJS is a serious, life-threatening condition that often affects children and the elderly, due to their weakened immune systems. In the beginning, those affected may notice symptoms such as a fever and body chills, soon followed by a painful red or purplish rash that spreads and blisters. As the condition worsens, these blisters will cause the top layer of skin to die and shed. In order to fully recover from SJS, the condition must be caught early on. When this is not the case, it can worsen and turn into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TENs), which is a much more deadly iteration of the disease.

If you have been diagnosed with SJS, your best bet at seeking compensation for your damages may be a lawsuit. In recent years, we have learned a lot about the effects of SJS and how it spreads. In most cases, individuals develop SJS due to an allergic reaction to a specific medication, such as Tylenol, Advil, or other common over-the-counter pain relievers. While the FDA warned of the potential dangers of acetaminophen (which is the common ingredient in Tylenol and other similar pain relievers) in 2012, these warnings have not been included on products.

FDA Recognizes Seriousness of SJS  

According to the FDA, symptoms of SJS typically show up within 28 days after use. However, they can occur later. If you have taken a medication such as an over-the-counter pain reliever, anticonvulsant, anti-seizure medication, or NSAIDs, and notice any of the following symptoms, please seek medical attention right away:

• Fever
• Widespread skin pain
• Red or purple rash that spreads
• Blisters on the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes, nose, and genitals
• Shedding of the skin
• Fatigue
• Burning eyes
• Cough

It is imperative you see a doctor if you notice any of the above symptoms. Your best chance of recovery is immediate medical attention. In many cases, patients are placed in medical comas and burn units. Furthermore, the condition can lead to many other life-threatening complications, including a bacterial infection that can cause organ failure, tissue damage, damage to internal organs, and permanent skin damage. If you have been diagnosed with SJS and are unsure of what your rights are, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today.