If you use a Philips continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, it may be time to search for an alternative. In June 2021, Philips recalled several of its CPAP machines after discovering that they could raise patients’ risk of cancer and other illnesses.
While you shouldn’t stop using your CPAP device immediately, you should consider alternative options for your sleep apnea treatment. Learn more about Philips CPAP alternatives and the legal issues surrounding the recall.
Which Philips Devices Were Recalled?
Philips chose to recall some of its CPAP, bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP), and ventilators after it discovered that the sound abatement foam posed a health risk. This foam can degrade and travel into the user’s lungs, leading to serious health problems like cancer, respiratory inflammation, and organ problems.
The manufacturer recalled the following BiPAP, CPAP, and ventilator machines:
- Aeris
- E30
- Garbin Plus
- LifeVent
- C-Series ASV
- C-Series S/T and AVAPS
- Dorma 400 and 500
- DreamStation ASV, Go, ST and AVAPS
- A-Series BiPAP A30
- A-Series BiPAP A40
- A-Series BiPAP Hybrid A30
- A-Series BiPAP V30 Auto
- Trilogy 100
- Trilogy 200
- Trilogy Evo ventilators
- REMstar SE Auto
- SystemOne ASV4 and Q-Series
What Should You Do If You Use a Recalled Philips CPAP Machine?
If you currently use a recalled Philips device, you should speak to your medical provider as soon as possible. Your provider may recommend another device, stop your treatment, or help you develop a new treatment plan.
Do not stop using the CPAP machine before speaking with your physician. Depending on your condition, stopping ventilator treatment can be very dangerous. Instead, consult with your doctor first about your options for an alternative device, other treatments, and lifestyle changes.
Popular Alternatives to Philips CPAP and BiPAP Machines
When it comes to CPAP and BiPAP machines, the best choice depends on your individual needs. Your doctor or insurance company can recommend alternative products that are affordable and effective for your condition.
During your search for a new CPAP or BiPAP machine, consider your needs. Compare the price, and noise level of each potential device. If you travel often, consider the device’s weight and portability. You may also want to look for advanced features like humidifiers, data tracking, and Bluetooth capabilities.
Below are a few popular alternatives to Philips CPAP and BiPAP machines:
- Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine
- ResMed AirMini
- F&P SleepStyle Auto CPAP Machine
- ResMed AirSense 10 CPAP Machine
- DeVilbiss IntelliPAP 2 Auto Adjust CPAP
- Luna G3 BiLevel 25A CPAP Machine
- ResMed AirCurve BiPAP 10 VAuto
- Luna G3 BiPAP Machine
Alternative Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
You don’t need to purchase a new CPAP device in order to treat your sleep apnea. Depending on your situation, you may qualify for an alternative treatment like surgery or an oral appliance.
Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea
An oral appliance is a removable device, similar to a night guard, that you wear while you are sleeping. The appliance is designed to keep your airway open during the night by providing extra support to your jaw (mandibular repositioning device) or tongue (tongue-retaining device).
Oral appliances are a cost-effective alternative to CPAP treatment. They’re also quiet, portable, and proven to improve symptoms like snoring, fatigue, and poor concentration.
However, oral appliances are not the right option for everyone. This treatment is best for mild or moderate sleep apnea, but it is not recommended for high-moderate or severe sleep apnea.
Surgery for Sleep Apnea
If you have severe sleep apnea that has not responded to CPAP machines or alternative treatment, your doctor may recommend surgery. There are several types of procedures that are designed to treat sleep apnea:
- Somnoplasty: Soft tissues in the upper airways, like the soft palate, base of the tongue, and uvula, often contribute to sleep apnea. During somnoplasty, radiofrequency energy is used to reduce these soft tissues and clear your airway.
- Tonsillectomy: This procedure involves removing obstructive tissue in the back of the throat that causes sleep apnea. The tonsils are a common cause of sleep apnea in children.
- Mandibular/Maxillary Advancement Surgery: In some cases, facial abnormalities and throat obstructions cause sleep apnea. Mandibular/maxillary advancement surgery is an invasive procedure that corrects these abnormalities. This procedure is usually recommended for severe cases of sleep apnea.
- Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulators: During this procedure, a stimulator is placed under the skin on the right side of your chest. When you are sleeping, the stimulator is activated and triggers your hypoglossal nerve. This causes your tongue to move out of your airway.
Lifestyle Changes for Sleep Apnea
Some people are able to reverse their sleep apnea symptoms by making certain lifestyle changes to improve their health. Depending on your situation, these lifestyle changes can be an effective alternative to CPAP machines.
Losing weight, quitting smoking, and changing your sleeping position could make a major difference if you have mild sleep apnea. If you have moderate or severe sleep apnea, you may need more intensive treatment.
Your doctor may recommend that you make the following changes to your lifestyle:
- Exercise more
- Eat a healthier diet
- Stop drinking alcohol
- Stop smoking cigarettes
- Sleep on your side instead of your back
- Use a sleeping device to avoid sleeping on your back
- Use a cervical pillow to help clear your airway during sleep
- Use nasal decongestants to aid in breathing
Speak to a Philips CPAP Lawsuit Attorney Today
If you used a recalled Philips CPAP device and were later diagnosed with cancer, lung problems, or another health issue, you may qualify for legal action. Many former Philips patients are filing lawsuits against Philips to recover compensation and hold it accountable for the illnesses that they suffered.
In these situations, it is important to speak with an attorney who is representing patients in their Philips CPAP lawsuits. An attorney can help you hold the manufacturer accountable and obtain the settlement that you need to pay for medical care, lost wages, CPAP alternatives, and more.
If you are suffering from a CPAP-related illness, you deserve justice. As soon as possible after your diagnosis, contact a Philips CPAP lawsuit attorney to discuss your legal options and plan your next steps.