Current lawsuits filed against Philips Respironics alleged that its sleep apnea devices such as BiPAP, CPAP, and mechanical ventilators have a design defect that has left many users suffering from lung and respiratory issues after inhaling or swallowing degraded foam particles. The Class I recall, which is the most serious kind of recall, listed millions of the company’s sleep apnea machines and ventilators. The manufacturer also said that the foam component of its machine may give off chemical emissions and exposure to this is possibly toxic. Those who have been using the machine and experiencing serious health issues because of this should consult an attorney from Shouse Law for legal help. They can be eligible for compensation.
Sleep Apnea is Common in Older Adults
A lot of Americans suffer from sleep apnea, which happens when a person’s upper airway is blocked during sleep, minimizing or stopping airflow. Most affected individuals remain undiagnosed. A CPAP machine from Philips can be used for treating this condition.
Age is a risk factor for sleep apnea, which impacts a significant number of people over 60. This may have to do with age-related changes in the way the brain controls breathing during sleep or the buildup of fatty tissue in the neck and tongue when a person gets older. Sleep apnea can also develop because of obesity, endocrine disorders, large tonsils, heart or kidney failure, and other causes.
Safety Recall of CPAP Machines
Philips announced in June 2021 a safety recall of most of its CPAP and BiPAP machines. This happened after the discovery that the machines’ PE-PUR sound foam may break down and get ingested or inhaled by patients. The foam contains toxic and carcinogenic volatile organic compounds. The company acknowledges that when the foam particles are inhaled by users, they can result in severe and life-threatening respiratory issues. Laboratory analysis shows that the particles can lead to irritation and airway inflammation, dizziness and headaches, kidney and liver damages, sinus infection, as well as chest pressure.
CPAP Lawsuits
After Philps announced the recall of its CPAP machines, a lot of affected users are filing lawsuits. This is expected since the company was aware of its products’ health risks and defects and did not warn consumers. A lot of users have been complaining about black particles in their lungs for years. But, the company only made a public safety announcement in April 2021.
