if you’ve been diagnosed with cancer or a physical illness after using a Philips CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device, you might be eligible for compensation for your damages. Philipa NV is based in the Netherlands, but it’s registered as a corporation in Delaware. In June of 2021, Philips recalled millions of CPAP machines that it manufactured because of a design defect. After being injured by a dangerously defective medical device, many victims don’t know which way to turn for help. When they learn how to file a lawsuit against Philips that seeks to compensate them for the damages that they’ve suffered, the playing field is leveled, and victims are given fair opportunities for settlements or awards.
Sleep Apnea and the Philips CPAP Machine
Sleep apnea occurs when a person’s breathing is interrupted while sleeping. It’s typically caused by repeated episodes of airways collapsing and becoming blocked during sleep. Affected individuals routinely stop breathing for short intervals during their sleep. According to the Cleveland Clinic, this can cause high blood pressure, stroke, or heart attacks. The Philips CPAP device forces filtered and pressurized air into obstructed airways and prevents them from becoming blocked when a person is sleeping. The CPAP was researched, developed, designed, and manufactured by Philips NV. It was recalled as a result of health risks as a result of polyurethane foam inside of it that’s used to reduce noise and vibration of the device breaking off and traveling into the machine’s airway. This debris could be breathed or swallowed by CPAC users. When that polyurethane degrades enough, it turns into formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Cancers suffered by CPAP users include, but aren’t limited to different forms of cancer, pneumonia, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and dizziness.]
Why are CPAP Lawsuits Being Filed?
CPAP litigation is pivoting on the allegations of a design defect and the failure to warn users of the possible dangers of using the device. Lawyers who are representing users of the device argue that Philips knew or should have known about the possible health risks of the product since it began using the foam. One user report dates back as far as 2011, when a patient remarked that she discovered a black dusty substance on her nose after she used the machine. Other CPAP users also complained of discovering black particles. There is compelling evidence that this dust or particle matter is degraded polyurethane foam. Aside from cancer, the degraded material can cause heart attacks and strokes, serious respiratory disorders, lung injuries, and severe liver or kidney disease.
What if I’ve Been Issued a Defective Device?
If you’re worried about having been issued a defective device, don’t stop using your CPAP machine until such time as you’ve spoken with your doctor. To stop using your device could be dangerous too. If a replacement machine is prescribed, don’t throw out your original device. Wrap it in a paper bag and put it in a safe place. Then, contact our offices here at Dolman Law Group. We offer free consultations and case reviews to affected CPAP users. You can tell us about how you were affected by your device, and we can answer your questions. After that, we can discuss all of your legal options,
The long-term costs of cancer or severe complications need to be addressed. By retaining a dedicated and skilled law firm to represent you, those costs along with other damages will be pursued. The time for pursuing them has been limited though. Arrange for that free consultation with a qualified and effective CPAP lawyer from our offices as soon as you can.