Those who are injured by a Philips CPAP machine may file a Philips CPA lawsuit for possible compensation. The company recalled a lot of its CPAP, BiPAP, and ventilator machines due to possible carcinogens and exposure to toxic chemicals. This has to do with the potential of the polyester-based polyurethane sound abatement foam utilized for damping sound and vibration when the device is being to degrade and break down. When this foam breaks down, it turns into particles and gases that can be inhaled or swallowed by a user.
Reasons the PE-PUR Foam is Possible Risky
A breakdown of the foam results in the release of particles and chemical gases that can enter the body through a person’s nose or mouth, causing different health conditions. These conditions can be life-threatening, lead to permanent impairment, and require extensive medical intervention to ensure the victim does not suffer permanent damage. The chemicals that may be produced include toluene diamine, toluene diisocyanate, dimethyl diazene, and diethylene glycol.
Common Symptoms of Exposure to the Foam Particles
Some of those who have used a CPAP machine complained of black particles in the airpath circuit of the machine. Possible symptoms of particle inhalation or ingestion include headache, airway irritation and inflammation, skin and eye irritation, sinus infection, cough, respiratory tract irritation, and more. Also, the manufacturer of the machine warned of possible health hazards volatile organic compounds that a damaged foam can emit.
Who Can File a CPAP Lawsuit?
Any person who used a recalled CPAP, BiPAP, or ventilator from Philips and suffered health issues may be eligible for compensation from the company. Injuries that victims can include in their lawsuits include cancers, organ damage, and respiratory issues. Respiratory problems may be especially troublesome for those who have lung disease.
Those who intend to file a lawsuit must work with an attorney to help determine if they qualify in the first place. Also, there is a limit to when they can file, so they must speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Other injuries that make a CPAP machine user qualified to file a lawsuit include multiple myeloma, breast cancer, brain cancer, heart failure, kidney cancer, prostate cancer, rectal cancer, leukemia, liver damage, and more. A faulty BiPAP, CPAP, or ventilator can leave a victim with a permanent injury. Filing a lawsuit can be a way for victims to get compensation to cover their past and future medical bills.