Health Implications of Recalled Device Use
Philips Respironics has received several complaints from patients and caretakers who have found black debris/particles within the device’s air pathway. They have also received reports of upper airway irritation, cough, chest pressure, headache, and sinus infection. These symptoms could be related to this issue. High heat and high humidity environments can exacerbate foam degradation, as can the use of unapproved cleaning methods.
The potential risks of particulate exposure include:
- Irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract
- Inflammatory response
- Headache
- Asthma
- Toxic or carcinogenic effects to organs, such as the liver and kidneys
The potential risks of exposure to the chemicals or off-gassing released into the machine’s air pathway from the PE-PUR foam can include:
- Irritation in the skin, eyes, nose, and respiratory tract
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Hypersensitivity
- Nausea/vomiting
- Toxic and carcinogenic effects
If you or someone you love has used one of the recalled machines and experienced these symptoms or health problems, it’s essential to contact a skilled Houston Texas CPAP cancer attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of receiving a full and fair recovery.
Is Your Machine Recalled?
If you own or use one of the recalled machines, there are some crucial steps you need to take. First, contact your doctor to determine a suitable replacement treatment for your condition. These may include:
- Refraining from the use of your device
- Using another similar device that hasn’t been recalled
- Using alternative sleep apnea treatments— for example, positional therapy or oral appliances
- Starting long term therapies for sleep apnea, such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol, and smoking cessation
- Considering surgical options
- Continuing to use your impacted device, if your doctor believes the benefits outweigh the risks mentioned in the recall
Ensure that you always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your CPAP machine. Only use the recommended cleaning and replacement guidelines for your CPAP machine and parts. Keep in mind that Ozone cleaners can increase the breakdown of the foam. There are also other possible risks associated with using ozone and ultraviolet (UV) light products for cleaning CPAP devices and their parts.
Who is Responsible for Your CPAP Injuries and Damages?
Companies that manufacture medical devices like CPAP machines owe their consumers, like you, a duty of care. They should be diligent in ensuring that only safe products are brought to the market. They are also responsible for warning of any risks of using their products or special instructions that must be followed. If they fail to take these actions, they can put patient’s health and safety at risk.
As such, the machine’s manufacturer can be found liable and ordered by the court to pay your damages. Your damages might include lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering. A knowledgeable Houston Texas CPAP cancer lawyer can assess your case to determine your legal rights and options.
Call an Experienced Houston Texas CPAP Cancer Lawyer Today
When a potentially life-saving device that you trust to keep you or your family member healthy ends up doing the opposite, you might feel blindsided. You followed your doctor’s instructions, the manufacturer’s instructions, and now you are worse for it. At Blizzard Greenberg, we understand your fears and concerns about your recall-affected machine and your health. We can assess the specific details of your situation to determine what your next steps should be. Contact us today to schedule your no-obligation case consultation with one of our skilled Houston Texas CPAP cancer attorneys. We are here to help you during this challenging and confusing time.