Medical devices treat thousands of health conditions. When the devices operate correctly, they are invaluable to the patients who rely on them. However, defective medical devices can cause severe injuries and death.
Our Chicago defective medical devices attorneys work with people who have sustained injuries after using a defective medical device. We help them recover compensation for their medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. One of our practice areas is the legal claims against Philips regarding lung injuries and cancer caused by defective CPAP machines.
What Condition Does a CPAP Machine Treat?
Sleep apnea is a common medical condition in the United States. It results when the upper airway is blocked during sleep. The result is reduced or complete lack of airflow. A person could experience oxygen deprivation 30 or more times a night.
Untreated sleep apnea can cause serious health problems and risk of injuries from drowsiness and fatigue.
Most individuals with sleep apnea use a CPAP (continuous positive air pressure) machine. The CPAP machine keeps the airway open by providing a continuous stream of air through a mask. Therefore, the person does not experience oxygen deprivation multiple times while sleeping.
What Is Wrong with the Philips CPAP Machines?
In June 2021, Philips issued a recall notification for specific CPAP machines, ventilators, and BiPAP machines. The recall was because of a potential health risk. The device contains PE-PUR sound abatement foam to reduce vibration and sound when the device is in use. The sound abatement foam is a polyester-based polyurethane.
The PE-PUR component can break down and disintegrate. When this happens, the foam could enter the device’s air pathway. As a result, the user may ingest or inhale toxic and possible carcinogenic substances.
Possible Injuries and Side Effects from Philips CPAP Machines
The defective component can result in specific health risks. Injuries and side effects include, but might not be limited to:
- Headaches
- Respiratory issues
- Possible carcinogenic risks (cancer)
- Eye, respiratory tract, and skin irritation
- Inflammation
- Possible toxic effects
- Adverse conditions of the kidneys, liver, and other organs
Black debris and particles have been reported in the air path of the CPAP machines. Customers have reported sinus infections and chest pressure, along with upper airway irritation.
In addition to the above risks, there are also risks associated with off-gassing, which is the release of harmful chemicals or organic compounds in vapor form. In addition to the above side effects, users may also experience vomiting, nausea, and hypersensitivity.
What Compensation Could I Recover From Filing a Philips CPAP Lawsuit?
The compensation you could receive depends on the facts of your case. Each case is unique. However, most victims of defective medical devices can recover compensation for their:
- Past, current, and future medical bills and expenses
- Cost of long-term personal care and nursing care
- Past, current, and future loss of income and benefits, including diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering caused by mental anguish, emotional distress, and physical injuries
- Permanent impairments and disabilities
- Loss of quality of life or enjoyment of life
Our Chicago personal injury attorneys can discuss damages and other factors of your case in more detail during a free consultation.
Call Now for Your Free Consultation with an Experienced Chicago Defective Medical Devices Attorney
Talk to your doctor immediately if you experience any of the side effects listed in the recall notice or other symptoms after using a Philips CPAP machine. Contact our law firm to schedule a free consultation with one of our Chicago Philips CPAP lawsuit attorneys.