Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a very serious disorder that impacts the skin and mucous membranes throughout the body. Generally, SJS develops as the result of an allergic reaction to a specific medication. Most people’s symptoms are similar to those of the flu in the beginning – fever, body aches, and cough.

However, as the disease progresses, other more serious symptoms settle in:

• Widespread red rash
• Blisters and sores all over the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes, genitals, and throat
• Peeling skin
• Unexplained skin pain
• Shedding of the skin several days after the blisters have formed

As you can see, the symptoms of SJS are unpleasant. Because SJS is a relatively rare skin condition, it is often misdiagnosed or overlooked entirely. When this happens, it often puts the patient in additional danger. If SJS isn’t diagnosed and treated early on, it may turn into Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), an even more deadly condition. In recent years, we have seen an increase in the number of medical malpractice lawsuits filed as a result of SJS. If your doctor missed an SJS diagnosis, please contact the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger today and schedule a free consultation.

What Causes SJS?

Before we take a closer look at what recovery for SJS looks like, let’s go over the top causes of the skin condition. SJS is an unpredictable reaction that is often difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. However, it is usually triggered by an infection or an allergic reaction to a specific medication, as mentioned earlier. Depending on the individual and the drug, it may take several weeks for the body to react negatively to a given medication. This can make it difficult to discover which medication is the culprit, especially for those taking multiple drugs.

Drugs that often cause SJS include:

• Anti-gout medications
• Anticonvulsants and antipsychotics
• Other medications used to treat mental illness
• Pain medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium
• Drugs that fight infection, such as amoxicillin and penicillin

Treating and Recovering from SJS

Now that we know what SJS is and what causes it, let’s go over how it is treated for your recovery. Some of the initial steps to get the condition under control include:

• Stop the medication causing the reaction
• Use IV fluids to replace any lost electrolytes
• Promote healing with high-calorie foods
• Dress and clean the wounds
• Prevent infection with antibiotics

In many cases, patients with SJS must receive treatment at the intensive care or burn unit. Many patients describe SJS as feeling as if the “skin was burning from the inside out.” Severe cases of SJS can be fatal, and the recovery process is grueling. Many people suffer complications such as sepsis and pneumonia, as the body can no longer defend itself as it once could. The Stevens-Johnson Syndrome lawyers at Wormington & Bollinger understand how devastating this condition can be and will do everything we can to help you seek compensation for your damages. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.