The health hazards Philips CPAP devices present are severe and can be life-threatening. For those who have inhaled debris from the machine’s PE-PUR sound abatement foam or been exposed to off-gassing caused by volatile organic compounds (VOC), you may have experienced a series of harmful and potentially fatal side effects.
If you are currently using or have used one of the CPAP machines affected by the Philips recall, contact your physician immediately and follow up with a personal injury lawyer. Philips CPAP recall symptoms are specific to PE-PUR and VOC exposure and should not be taken lightly.
Philips CPAP Recall Symptoms
CPAP therapy devices are used to treat patients suffering from sleep apnea, a medical disorder in which the affected person regularly stops breathing while asleep. For some, a CPAP machine is a life-supporting ventilation system, and as many users would say, they can’t be without it. That’s why the Philips CPAP recall is so severe.
If you use a Philips CPAP machine manufactured before April 26, 2021, and are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may fall into the category of those who are being affected by degrading PE-PUR sound abatement foam and off-gassing.
Particle Inhalation Symptoms
According to the recall statement from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), the known symptoms of particulate inhalation include the following:
- Irritation of the skin, eye, and respiratory tract, even with a well-fitting mask
- Inflammatory response
- Headache
- Sudden development of asthma
- Adverse effects to other organs, particularly the kidneys and liver
- Toxic, carcinogenic effects, i.e., various cancers
If you think you have inhaled PE-PUR foam, check your machine for black particles or other flecks of debris. Users typically found evidence of this in their CPAPs device outlet, tubing, and mask.
Off-Gassing Symptoms
If you do not see any debris and are still experiencing unusual medical side effects, there is a chance you may be inhaling gas from the degraded PE-PUR foam. PE-PUR off-gassing can occur when the machine is on and exacerbated by heat and humidity.
Symptoms of chemical exposure include the following:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Irritation (eyes, nose, respiratory tract, skin)
- Hypersensitivity
- Nausea/vomiting
- Toxic and carcinogenic effects
While some off-gassing symptoms may seem less concerning, prolonged exposure to toxic gasses can be seriously harmful to your health.
PE-PUR Chemical Inhalation Symptoms
Various global organizations recognize that PE-PUR’s chemicals are unsafe and potentially carcinogenic. One prominent chemical constituent or PE-PUR is isocyanates, and this too can be hazardous for human health.
Isocyanates are a common occupational hazard, a widely-used manufacturing ingredient in flexible and rigid foams, paints, coatings, and fibers. It is incredibly irritating to mucous membranes, and it can also cause asthma.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), isocyanates exposure can also cause:
- Chest tightness
- Difficulty breathing
- Irritation to the eyes, skin, nose, and throat
Through the PE-PUR foam in your CPAP device, you could be experiencing these and other symptoms due to isocyanates exposure.
What to Do If You Are Experiencing Symptoms Due to a CPAP Machine
If you or someone you know is experiencing Philips CPAP recall symptoms, take these important steps.
Get Medical Attention
See your physician immediately if you are using a CPAP machine affected by the product recall. Your doctor can explain your options for continuing with your sleep apnea treatment. They may advise that you get a new CPAP machine, modify your existing machine, or seek another alternative therapy. You should not discontinue the use of your CPAP machine until you speak with your doctor.
Additionally, discuss any symptoms you may be experiencing with your doctor. Getting treatment for any health condition you may have is crucial for your well-being. It can also work to document that a CPAP machine was responsible for your illness.
When you bring a case for compensation, the liable party’s representatives will look to your health history to determine if you are eligible for damages. They will also work to challenge your claim if you have an insufficient record of injury.
Get a Free Case Review from an Injury Lawyer
Next, seek a case review from a personal injury lawyer’s team. If you’ve suffered an injury as a result of a recalled Philips CPAP machine, you may be entitled to compensation.
Many injury law firms offer free case reviews for victims of defective CPAP machines. When you make your call, the law firm’s team can tell you more about:
- Your eligibility to seek compensation
- How the legal process works
- What you can expect from your legal team if you choose to hire us
The firm can also answer any other questions you may have about your case.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Bring a Case If You Were Injured By a CPAP Machine
If you want to bring a case against Philips Respironics, you may want to consider the benefits of hiring a lawyer. A CPAP lawsuit lawyer can handle every step of your case for compensation, including:
- Helping you determine what forms of damages you could seek
- Navigating the legal process for you
- Gathering crucial evidence
- Filing any necessary paperwork
- Handling the communications with third parties for you
- Negotiating a fair settlement
- Keeping you updated on your case’s progress
- Using their knowledge of product liability law to benefit your case
It can be challenging to navigate the legal complexities of a case against Philips on your own. You don’t have to be alone in your case.
A lawyer can help you put together a strong case for your compensation. They can tell you what you could seek for damages, such as:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
Call Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Call Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers to learn more about your next steps in a Philips CPAP lawsuit. If you hire us, you can expect to work directly with our firm’s partners to seek the justice you need.
You can take advantage of your free legal strategy session with the team at Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers today. Call us at (855) 529-0269.