What Are the Common Health Issues Associated With CPAP Machines?

In 2021, Philips issued a recall for product defects in its CPAP and BiPAP machines that could cause health problems for patients. The common health issues associated with defective CPAP machines are:

  • Toxic effects on the organs, including cancer
  • Irritation to the respiratory tract
  • Hypersensitivity and allergic or immune system reactions
  • Breathing problems, including asthma
  • Inflammatory response
  • Headache and dizziness

Defective CPAP and BiPAP Machines Can Cause Serious Harm

health issues with CPAP machine

Bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP) and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are medical devices designed to help sleep apnea patients. Sleep apnea, as Mayo Clinic explains, causes patients to repeatedly stop breathing during the night. CPAP and BiPAP machines keep the patient breathing normally.

Unfortunately, the machines that so many rely on to improve their health may cause additional problems. Severe health conditions from Philips’ defective CPAP and BiPAP machines can affect the:

  • Lungs
  • Kidneys
  • Liver
  • Other organs

These conditions may also increase your risk of developing other complications. For instance, those with asthma can face challenges with physical exercise, which can lead to health challenges such as diabetes and high blood pressure. (Healthline)

Additionally, fighting cancer is often a long-term hardship. Patients may require invasive surgery, chemotherapy, and other treatment over a long period. 

What Is the CPAP Machine Defect?

The defective CPAP and BiPAP machines were produced by Philips. Philips uses a foam called polyester-based polyurethane (PE-PUR) in its machines to ensure they run quietly.

However, this foam is not always stable. It can break down after a while and enter the tube the patient breathes through. The chemicals in PE-PUR have been linked to the health conditions listed above.

Why Are People Suing the CPAP Machine Manufacturer?

The CPAP machine lawsuits against Philips allege that the company knew its machines were hazardous but did nothing. Philips had the power to protect its customers by recalling the machines and issuing a statement warning the public about the danger they presented, but they chose not to do so until years after the fact.

The plaintiffs in the defective CPAP and BiPAP machine cases say that Philips is responsible for their:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Diminished quality of life
  • Physical disabilities
  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Past and future loss of income, benefits, etc.
  • Other expenses related to their illness

As a result, the plaintiffs are seeking monetary compensation from Philips to cover these losses.

Wrongful Death Cases Related to CPAP Machines

The conditions linked to defective CPAP machines are all too often fatal. This is another reason some people are suing Philips—for the wrongful death of their loved ones or for the fact that they themselves expect to pass away sooner than they should have.

It is perfectly understandable if you do not want to spend this time embroiled in a lawsuit. Know that an attorney can simplify the process. They can manage your entire case, so you do not have to put any personal time or effort into pursuing compensation for:

  • Grief 
  • Loss of society and companionship
  • Loss of financial support
  • Funeral and burial expenses

After Exposure to a Faulty CPAP Machine

If you suspect your CPAP or BiPAP machine is defective, you can take the following actions:

Get a New Machine

If you have not already done so, go to Philips’ website and register your device to find out if it is part of the recall. You can then request replacement parts or a replacement machine from the company.

Talk to Your Doctor

BiPAP and CPAP machines are critical medical devices, so it may not be a good idea to stop using them abruptly. Instead, contact your doctor and tell them about your concerns. Your doctor can:

  • Advise you about whether you can safely stop using the machine or not
  • Examine you for signs of common health issues associated with CPAP machines, whether or not you are exhibiting symptoms
  • Treat you for sleep apnea and any other health issues
  • Address your concerns about the potential medical effects of the defective machines

Some symptoms of PE-PUR exposure may be mild and more straightforward to treat. However, others might require more intensive treatment. It is better to be safe than sorry, so please see your doctor as soon as possible.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Philips could owe you compensation if:

  • You bought and used one of the machines that they have now recalled.
  • You developed a new health condition since using the machine or an existing health condition has worsened.
  • Your health probably would not have worsened in that way if you had not been exposed to harmful chemicals through the CPAP machine.

A personal injury lawsuit lawyer can help you figure out what your rights are in this situation. This can be particularly useful if you:

  • Are already sick or stressed because of the situation
  • Are unfamiliar with the law
  • Would prefer not to appear in court or speak directly to Philips or their representatives
  • Would appreciate professional assistance with legal tasks, such as filing paperwork or collecting evidence
  • Want someone to help you determine your case’s monetary value and negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf

If You Are Offered a CPAP Machine Settlement

Some cases go all the way to trial, but many do not get that far. Instead, the liable party offers the plaintiffs a settlement in a bid to end the case faster.

You might naturally be excited at the prospect of receiving a CPAP settlement. However, it is important not to be hasty. To ensure the settlement offer meets all of your needs and will provide fair recompense for everything you have lost, you can let your lawyer:

  • Evaluate your case’s value
  • Review any settlement offers the liable party makes
  • Tell you if the settlement offer is worth accepting
  • Negotiate for a better settlement, if the offer is inadequate

You only get one chance to recover compensation, so you want to make sure you get everything you need for your medical expenses, personal suffering, and so on.

Consider Filing a CPAP Machine Lawsuit

If you believe that your health issues are associated with your use of a CPAP machine, you can hire a mass torts lawyer to help you prove your case. They can ensure you avoid common legal mistakes people make and fight to secure a fair settlement for you. To get started, tell us more about your situation by filling out our contact form.