Posted on Thursday, February 15th, 2024 at 9:00 am
Do you wear a CPAP machine to manage sleep apnea? If so, you should be aware of potential health risks associated with using such a machine.
Philips, a CPAP manufacturer, has recalled several million CPAP machines in the U.S. due to safety issues. Now, the company may stop selling its machines in the U.S. entirely until it addresses those issues properly.
Philips Will Likely Stop Selling CPAP Machines in the U.S.
The most recent major safety issue potentially affecting patients who use Philips CPAP machines came to light in June of 2021. That’s when Philips formally warned consumers about dangers linked to sound-dampening foam in the company’s CPAP devices.
This material can break down over time. When it does, patients may be at risk of inhaling dangerous chemicals or materials while wearing CPAP machines during sleep. Thus, patients might be harming themselves without knowing it.
At first, Philips stated that it would be able to repair or replace the affected devices. Unfortunately, what was meant to be a routine recall has now continued for years.
Now, Philips has tentatively agreed to stop selling its CPAP machines in the U.S. Per the tentative agreement with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Philips will no longer be able to sell CPAP machines in the country until it corrects issues with the devices according to corrective actions outlined by the FDA.
Oral Appliance: An Alternative to a CPAP
Recent developments like these remind patients that using CPAP machines can involve certain risks. Sleep apnea sufferers may consider other options with fewer hazardous side effects.
Using an oral appliance is a good choice. If you suffer from sleep apnea, you should see a professional to find out if an oral appliance is right for you. A professional can also help you choose the right type of oral appliance.
An oral appliance is similar to a retainer in that you wear it during sleep. The device keeps your airway open. Oral appliance therapy may be particularly ideal for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea.
Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
Not having to use a CPAP machine that might expose you to harmful materials is just one of the benefits of switching to oral appliance therapy. Other advantages include:
- Wearing an oral appliance in bed may be more comfortable and convenient than wearing a bulky or unwieldy CPAP machine.
- Traveling with an oral appliance is easy.
- An oral appliance may be a perfect alternative to a CPAP machine for someone with claustrophobia.
An oral appliance doesn’t require surgery. Oral appliance therapy is often relatively affordable when compared to other sleep apnea treatment and management methods.
Learn More About Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea on Long Island, NY
Do you want to find out if an oral appliance is right for you? A sleep professional at Silent Night Therapy on Long Island can review your records and examine you to determine whether an oral appliance could be a good treatment choice for you. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 631-983-2463 to schedule a complimentary consultation.