A man’s life took a drastic turn after what seemed like a misdiagnosed migraine turned out to be a life-changing brain injury. Gurmukh Gahir, 49, also known as Sonny, was left with severe cognitive difficulties as a result of encephalitis, a condition causing the brain to swell. This condition has rendered him unable to live or work independently, now requiring assistance in managing his finances and day-to-day tasks.
Initially, Sonny sought medical attention after experiencing a mystery smell, along with other symptoms like confusion and a shift in personality. However, he was diagnosed with a migraine and sent home. Over the following days, his condition worsened, leading to his admission to the hospital where he was diagnosed with herpes simplex encephalitis, a life-altering brain infection.
Herpes encephalitis, responsible for about 90% of cases, is often caused by the same virus that leads to cold sores. Sonny, who previously worked as an IT consultant, has been profoundly impacted by this misdiagnosis, now reliant on others for his daily needs and financial management.
His sister, Gagun Gahir, expressed the family’s shock and fear at witnessing Sonny’s dramatic decline in health. She highlighted the uncertainty and fear they faced during his hospitalization, unsure of his survival from one moment to the next. Sonny’s life has been irrevocably altered, leaving his loved ones to navigate the challenges of his transformed condition.
The misdiagnosis occurred in 2018 when Sonny first reported the unexplained smell and sensitivity to bright lights. Despite seeking medical attention, he was prescribed painkillers and anti-sickness medication, with the diagnosis of a migraine. However, his condition continued to deteriorate, culminating in the accurate diagnosis of herpes simplex encephalitis three days later at Queen’s Hospital in Romford.
Following this life-altering event, Sonny’s family launched a legal campaign seeking accountability for the misdiagnosis and its devastating consequences. This case serves as a reminder of the profound impact of medical misdiagnosis and the importance of accurate and timely healthcare interventions.
