Do you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)? If so, you may use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to help you get a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, certain devices made by Phillips Respironics have been recalled because of serious health risks, leaving millions of people unable to get the rest they need. In the meantime, customers are being asked to stop using their machines and opt for an alternative. Read on to learn more about this recall and why you should consider oral appliance therapy instead.
Which Machines Have Been Recalled?
Many popular BiPAP and CPAP machines made by Phillips Respironics are being recalled over concerns about chemicals in the machines. The company says that people could be inhaling cancer-causing chemicals through the type of foam embedded in the devices. The purpose of the foam is to reduce the sounds and vibrations emitted by the appliances. Since the foam can break down into small particles, they can be inhaled and contribute to several health issues.
This recall has affected around two million people across the country. Phillips Respironics stated that they would either replace or repair the affected devices within one year. In the meantime, people are being advised to stop using their breathing machines and opt for an alternative. Of course, it’s best to check in with your sleep dentist before completely discontinuing the use of your device.
What Are the Risks of Using a Recalled Machine?
There are a few short-term and long-term risks associated with using the affected devices. The short-term risks of inhaling these particles include headaches, skin irritation, and allergic reactions. Some people may experience eye and skin irritation along with nausea or vomiting.
Meanwhile, a few possible long-term risks include a higher chance of developing asthma as well as carcinogenic effects on critical organs like the liver and kidneys. There’s no telling exactly how high the risks for these complications are as the recall is still recent.
The Benefits of Oral Appliance Therapy
If your CPAP machine was recalled, you might be looking for an alternative solution to help you sleep at night. Well, you should consider transitioning to oral appliance therapy. It’s a mouthguard-like device worn at night during sleep, helping reposition the jaw to keep the tongue from blocking the airway. There are many incredible benefits of using an oral appliance, including:
- Ease of use. You don’t have to worry about using a bulky, noisy machine that constricts sleep movements or has attachments that can interfere with your sleep.
- Greater convenience. The portability of an oral appliance can lead to greater compliance. Also, the devices used for oral appliance therapy are lightweight and compact, meaning traveling is much easier to do.
- Increased comfort. Many patients find that sleeping with an oral appliance is much more comfortable than wearing a CPAP mask.
Has your CPAP machine been recalled? Make sure you check with your sleep dentist before stopping treatment abruptly, as untreated sleep apnea can lead to severe complications. They’ll work with you to develop a plan that’ll help you get quality rest in no time!
About the Practice
At Little Rock Family Dental Care, we offer convenient, exceptional, comprehensive dental services to patients of all ages. From standard checkups to sleep apnea therapy, we’ve got you covered. If your CPAP machine has been recalled, don’t hesitate to contact our team for assistance. We’ll discuss alternative treatment options to ensure there are no disruptions in your sleep. To make an appointment, visit our website or call our office today!