What Injuries Can Be Caused by Defective CPAP and BiPAP Devices?

Serious Health Issues include Cancer, Lung, Kidney, Heart Damage and Respiratory Disorders

Millions of people in the United States struggle with sleep apnea, and they often rely on devices known as CPAP machines to ensure that they can breathe properly while they are sleeping. Unfortunately, many CPAP users have learned that they may have been placed at risk of harm due to their use of these devices. Philips Respironics, a major medical device manufacturer, has recalled millions of defective CPAP machines, as well as BiPAP devices and continuous ventilators. Those who have used the recalled devices will need to be aware of the ways they could potentially have been affected.

The attorneys of Colianni & Leonard LLC understand the difficulties faced by consumers who have been placed at risk of harm by defective products. In many cases, people need to use CPAPs or other ventilators to maintain proper health and avoid complications of sleep apnea. This means that they may need to weigh the risks of continuing to use a dangerous device against the harmful effects they may experience if they go without the necessary treatment. We can help those who have been affected by the recall determine how they may have been harmed by the use of defective CPAP machines, and we are prepared to help them seek compensation, including by pursuing mass torts.

Health Issues Caused by Degrading Foam in CPAP Machines

The recalled devices were found to be dangerous because they used a foam that was meant to help devices operate more quietly. This foam has been found to break down over time. Small particles of foam could enter the airways of a device, causing them to be inhaled by the person receiving treatment for sleep apnea. The breakdown of foam may also have released dangerous chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and the inhalation of these substances may have contributed to a person's injuries and health issues.

Foam particles and VOCs inhaled by users of defective CPAP machines may have caused multiple types of injuries to the lungs and respiratory tract. These substances can cause irritation and inflammation. Ongoing respiratory disorders may affect a person, including asthma, bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). In some cases, foam particles or chemicals may cause permanent injuries to the lungs. In the most serious cases, a person may experience respiratory failure, which can be life-threatening.

Dangerous substances in recalled CPAP machines may also lead to multiple other types of injuries and health conditions. These substances have been linked to multiple forms of cancer. Damage to organs such as the liver or kidneys may lead to organ failure. Some people have also experienced heart disease and/or autoimmune diseases. A person who used a defective device while pregnant may experience pregnancy complications, or their child may experience birth defects or other chronic health conditions.

Contact Our Allegheny County CPAP Injury Lawyers

Defective CPAP machines may have caused a wide variety of dangerous health issues, and those who have been harmed by using these devices will need to determine how they can hold the manufacturer responsible for their injuries. Our firm can provide representation in these cases, ensuring that victims will be able to address the ways they and their families have been affected. Contact us today by calling 412-680-7877 to set up a free consultation and learn how we can help with your case.