Philips Respironics, the maker of famous sleep apnea machines, announced a recall of its products due to possible health risks that can be severe or life-threatening. The company’s BiPAP and CPAP machines offer breathing assistance to people who have breathing issues like sleep apnea. But, it has been found out that the machines have polyester-based polyurethane sound abatement foam mean to minimize sound and vibration when these machines are used. The foam may degrade or break down over time and possibly enter the air pathway of the device where it can be inhaled or ingested by patients, increasing their risk of cancer, respiratory issues, and other health problems.
Serious Health Risks
According to the FDA, the abatement foam embedded in the machines can cause severe injuries that can threaten the life of the user and require medical intervention. Philips has received complaints from users regarding the presence of black particles within their machines’ airpath circuits. It has gotten complaints from those who have been injured by a Philips sleep apnea device. A lot of complainants suffer from cough, headache, sinus infection, chest pressure, and upper airway irritation. The FDA recommends that patients affected by the recall must speak with their doctors about alternative treatments. Those who use ventilators at home must talk to their health care provider first before they stop using or change their ventilators.
Compensation that Victims Can Recover in a CPAP Lawsuit
Following the recall announcement, lawyers started to accept cases for those who used the recalled machines and sustained injuries or people who lost a loved one because of it. Those who have been using a Philips CPAP machine and suffer serious health issues like cancer or lung damage are eligible to seek compensation for their medical expenses (past and future), pain and suffering, wage loss, and other economic losses due to their machine-related injuries. Their attorney can help them collect medical evidence to prove their injuries and their association with the use of any of the recalled devices.
How CPAP Therapy Has Been Helping Sleep Apnea Sufferers
Sleep apnea is a common medical condition suffered by millions of Americans. Those who suffer from this condition have to deal with shallow or interrupted breathing at night while asleep. When the regular flow of oxygen is seriously interrupted, medical issues can arise including headaches, heart attack, and stroke.
A lot of sufferers have been benefiting from CPAP therapy which involves the use of a CPAP device at night to deliver air to their lungs through a mask they wear over their nose and mouth. The machine’s air pressure keeps the airway of the patient open throughout the night, preventing compassion and collapse.