From Broken Tooth to Open-Heart Surgery: A Harrowing 7-Month Health Battle
A man in Ohio initially diagnosed with the flu after having a broken tooth pulled ended up experiencing a 7-month medical ordeal. Despite seeking medical help multiple times, his condition worsened, leading to a significant weight loss and unconsciousness. Eventually, he was diagnosed with meningitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia. After being admitted to the hospital, it was discovered that he had a severe, full-body blood infection and bacterial endocarditis. He underwent open-heart surgery to replace a damaged valve. The man believes his health issues can be traced back to his broken tooth, which he couldn't afford to fix at the time. The lack of antibiotics during that period resulted in over $830,000 in medical debt.