The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) alerted healthcare providers and users of Philips Respironics’ CPAP machines, BiPAP machines, and ventilators that the company recalled some of its devices because of their health risks.
These devices contain PE-PUR (polyester-based polyurethane), a sound and vibration abatement foam that breaks down and releases chemicals and particles that can cause many health hazards, including respiratory problems.
Chronic Respiratory Diseases
Philips Respironics’ CPAP machines, BiPAP machines, and ventilators are used by people with chronic respiratory problems to help with their breathing issues. Besides having to undergo many pharmaceutical treatments, most people with chronic respiratory problems also suffer from sleep apnea, a condition that makes them stop breathing abruptly as they sleep.
Sleep apnea is associated with sudden gasping for air or gagging as the patient sleeps. This condition occurs when the airway muscles get weak.
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you can benefit from using a BiPAP or CPAP machine. The machine will regulate your breathing as you sleep, preventing you from suffocating.
CPAP and BiPAP machines will deliver to you a continuous stream of pressurized air so you can breathe normally while sleeping.
What If Your CPAP Machine is Recalled?
If your BIPAP or CPAP machine is recalled, you have to act fast because you could be putting your life at risk by continuing to use it. Here are the steps you should take:
- Contact your physician and find out whether you need to stop using the device.
- If instructed by your doctor, stop using the recalled device and replace it with another one that’s not recalled.
- Find out if there are other alternative treatments you can use for your sleep apnea. Also, work towards finding a lasting solution for your sleep apnea, like surgical operation or weight loss.
- Find out from your health care provider whether the benefit you derive from using the recalled device outweighs the health risks it is exposing you to.
- Visit the Philips’ website, fill the recall form and register your device.
- Speak to the defective medical device attorneys at the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP
PE-PUR Foam May Be Swallowed or Inhaled
Have your doctor find out whether you’ve inhaled or swallowed chemicals or particles from PE-PUR. PE-PUR is a carcinogenic substance and has harmful effects on kidneys, liver, and other body organs. These chemicals and particles can result in life-threatening injuries. They can cause adverse effects on you, some of which might be permanent if not treated early enough. Some of these effects include hypersensitivity, irritation in the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract.
Contact a Defective Medical Device Attorney at the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP
Already, Massachusetts has filed a class action against Philips Respironics regarding the recall of their products. If this recall affects you directly and has affected your health, you should consider seeking legal redress by discussing this with a qualified defective medical device lawyer from the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP. You may be entitled to compensation. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and allow us to pursue justice on your behalf. Call today! 516-358-6900.
