Phillips Respironics CPAP Machines, also called BiPAP machines, treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a sleep disorder in which the pharynx repetitively collapses during sleep. These collapses cause snoring and inadequate, shallow breathing. Philips Respironics recalls its DreamStation CPAP machines due to concerns over PE-PUR sound abatement foam. The problem with the polymer is that it breaks down and may cause black debris or particles to enter the mask, tubing, or air pathway. It also releases toxic chemicals directly into your lungs! A product recall occurs when a company issues instructions to return their products after discovering that there is something wrong with it that poses health risks to its users.
This issue was brought up back in June of 2021 when Philips Respironics issued a recall for various types of respiratory equipment that contained this specific type of polyester-based polyurethane foam from being used anymore because there were some reports about these materials releasing these harmful substances through the bodies of its users. Sleep apnea may cause extra awakenings during sleep, while the pharynx and airway are blocked for several seconds or longer. This can lead to poor sleep quality, excessive daytime drowsiness, and memory and concentration problems. The Philips CPAP Machines are used to treat patients with sleep apnea through pharyngeal pressure control or upper airway pressure relief.