Table Of Contents
What is the Philips A-Series BiPAP?
A Philips A-Series BiPAP Machine pumps air under varying pressure into the airway of the lungs. BiPAP machines use a higher pressure when you breathe in and lower pressure when you breathe out.
Philips CPAP Recall
On June 14, 2021, Philips Respironics issued a recall notification in the United States for specific Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, BiLevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiLevel PAP) devices, and Philips Respironics ventilators. The sleep apnea machine recall comes months after the company advised of a potential health risk related to its products.
The FDA has classified this as a Class I Recall, which is the most urgent and serious recall allowed by law. Class I Recalls pertain to defective products that can cause serious health problems or death.
Philips has attributed some foam degradation to using ozone cleaning machines such as those made by SoClean, Inc. SoClean manufactures cleaning devices that could be used to clean sleep apnea machines. The company sued Philips for blaming the company.
In December 2021, SoClean filed an amended complaint that referenced the FDA’s report. According to the complaint, Philips knew for years that the foam could cause a “serious risk of harm,” but instead of warning the public, it engaged in a smear campaign against SoClean.
In June 2022, Philips released an update on its PE-PUR foam testing. The company said that the levels of chemical gasses released by the foam weren’t expected to cause problems. It also continued to place blame on ozone cleaners, saying the foam in Philips sleep apnea machines exposed to ozone cleaners was 14 times more likely to degrade. So far, the FDA hasn’t released any new guidance or confirmed Philips’ findings.
Side Effects & Injuries
- Cancer (carcinogenic effects)
- Blood cancers (multiple myeloma, leukemia)
- Lung scarring
- Sarcoidosis
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Headache
- Irritation
- Inflammation
- Chest pressure
- Respiratory issues
- Toxic effects
- Other health issues
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common condition in which your breathing stops and restarts many times while you sleep. This can prevent your body from getting enough oxygen. You may want to talk to your healthcare provider about apnea if someone tells you that you snore or gasp during sleep, or if you experience other symptoms of poor-quality sleep, such as excessive daytime sleepiness.
There are two types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive sleep apnea – Occurs when your upper airway becomes blocked many times while you sleep, reducing or completely stopping airflow. Anything that could narrow your airway such as obesity, large tonsils, or changes in your hormone levels can increase your risk for obstructive apnea.
- Central sleep apnea – Occurs when your brain does not send the signals needed to breathe. Health conditions that affect how your brain controls your airway and chest muscles can cause this kind of apnea.
Are BiPAP Lawsuits Being Filed?
Yes. Thousands of plaintiffs have already begun filing lawsuits against Philips Respironics with claims that the company’s sleep apnea machines caused severe health reactions ranging from respiratory issues to cancer.
In filings, victims allege that the recalled Philips sleep apnea machines use an inferior sound abatement foam that deteriorates and releases dangerous chemicals and tiny particles into the lungs.
Questions Your Lawyer May Ask
When you contact a lawyer about your potential injury case, they may ask you questions about your experience with your Philips sleep apnea machine. Make sure you gather medical records, medical bills, receipts and any other documents to answer questions with as much detail as possible.
Which Philips sleep apnea machine did you use?
This litigation involves sleep apnea devices included in the recall. Make sure you know the brand and model of your machine. If you aren’t sure if your breathing machine is a recalled sleep apnea machine or ventilator, the attorney can help you figure it out.
Did you keep your recalled Philips Sleep Apnea Machine?
It’s important to keep your recalled Philips machine for evidence in a potential case. Your lawyer can help you keep the machine if your supplier is asking you to return it.
What serious injuries are you experiencing from your device?
Tell the lawyer about any serious side effects your doctor diagnosed you with, especially serious breathing problems, organ damage, or cancer. Have your medical records handy to answer questions.
What symptoms did you experience?
Your lawyer will want to know if you experience any symptoms related to inhaling particles of toxic gas from sound abatement foam. This may include breathing problems, headaches, dizziness, or other medical problems.
Why are you interested in filing a lawsuit?
Tell your lawyer what types of damages you want to be compensated for and why you want to file a lawsuit. This can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and holding Philips accountable for manufacturing a defective machine.
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FAQs:
What Health Risks Are Associated With the A-Series Bipap Machine?
Health risks associated with the A-Series BiPAP machine include respiratory problems, headaches, and potential exposure to harmful chemicals due to defective components in the device.
Who Can File a Lawsuit Regarding the A-Series Bipap Machine?
Anyone who has used the A-Series BiPAP Machine and suffered adverse health effects or damages related to its defects can file a lawsuit regarding the A-Series BiPAP machine. Consulting with a personal injury attorney is recommended.
What Compensation Might I Be Entitled to in the A-Series Bipap Machine Lawsuit?
Compensation that you might be entitled to in the A-Series BiPAP machine lawsuit covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages caused by the defective BiPAP machine.
How Do I Join the A-Series Bipap Machine Lawsuit?
To join the A-Series BiPAP machine lawsuit, you must contact a personal injury attorney who specializes in product liability cases. They will evaluate your situation and guide you through the process of filing a claim.
What Evidence Do I Need to Support My Claim in the A-Series Bipap Machine Lawsuit?
The evidence you need to support your claim in the A-Series BiPAP machine lawsuit ncludes medical records showing the health impacts of using the device, proof of purchase or usage of the A-Series BiPAP Machine, and any communication with the manufacturer regarding the defect.