If you suffer from sleep apnea, you understand how disruptive and scary this condition can be. Not only does it leave you exhausted, but it can have chronic and even fatal symptoms. As a result, you may have used a CPAP machine to help alleviate the symptoms. Unfortunately, if you used a Philips Respironics device, you may have fallen ill. If this is the case, you may be eligible to join the CPAP lawsuit with the help of a Houston product liability lawyer. Keep reading to learn more about the ongoing litigation.
What Is the CPAP Lawsuit?
Unfortunately, Philips Respironics has recalled nineteen CPAP and BiPAP machines due to an issue with the foam used inside the machine. This foam, a PE-PUR compound, has been found to break down when the device is exposed to common elements like heat, sunlight, and oxygen. As a result, the foam releases toxins that can be inhaled or ingested by the user.
PE-PUR is a polyester polyurethane, which contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are toxic carcinogens, meaning they can lead to severe illnesses like cancer. Unfortunately, the FDA has reason to believe Philips was aware of this issue for years before initiating a recall.
How Do I Know if I Am Eligible?
If you used one of the nineteen recalled devices every night for at least six months and suffered an injury or illness, you are likely eligible to join the lawsuit.
Unfortunately, it is unknown the true scope of the injuries and illnesses this foam can cause at this time. The following list contains a small number of suspected conditions these devices are believed to cause:
- Liver cancer
- Acute Respiratory Distress System (ARDS)
- Renal disease
- Brain cancer
- Heart failure
- Stomach cancer
- Lung damage
- Papillary carcinoma
Unfortunately, as previously stated, this is not the full extent of injuries believed to be associated with the use of a defective machine. If you have suffered any injury or illness as a direct result of the use of this device, you are likely eligible for compensation.
What Should I Do if I’ve Been Injured?
If you’ve suffered after using one of these CPAP machines, it’s imperative that you reach out to a competent product liability attorney as soon as possible. The recall began on June 14, 2021, and Texas has a two-year statute of limitations to take legal action. This means you must act before Jun 14, 2023, otherwise, you lose the right to receive compensation.
If you were injured by a defective Philips CPAP machine, you’ll want to reach out to the Gonzales Law Group as soon as possible. Our dedicated team understands how devastating the effects of using this machine are for many, meaning we will work tirelessly to help you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact our offices today to learn more about how we can help you through this challenging time.
