Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which can cause the top layer of skin to shed and die, is a painful and potentially deadly condition usually caused by an allergic reaction to medication, infection or illness.
It requires hospitalization, frequently in an intensive care unit or burn unit. But according to the Stevens Johnson Syndrome Foundation, patients who suffer a bout may have to contend with the after-effects for a long time afterward – perhaps the rest of their lives.
Lingering side effects may include:
- Permanent loss of nail beds
- Scarred pores
- Scarring and hyperpigmentation of the skin
- Visual impairment
- Dry eye syndrome
- Asthma
- Chronic fatigue
- Swallow disorder
If you’re unable to continue working because of lingering side effects, the Foundation recommends you contact Social Security to apply for disability payments as soon as possible because it can take many months to be approved. The Foundation says patients may want to avail themselves of the patient advocates and social workers that many hospitals have on staff.
The Foundation says patients who have survived a bout of Stevens Johnson syndrome may also need to get follow-up care from a range of medical professionals. Possibilities include:
- Pulmonologist
- Ophthalmologist
- Dermatologist
- Internal Medicine
- Gastrointestinal specialist
- Cornea specialist
If you or a loved one have suffered from the condition, you should consult with a Stevens-Johnson Syndrome attorney at Lopez McHugh to evaluate whether you have a claim.
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