Sleep apnea is an issue that affects millions of people throughout the United States. Those who struggle to breathe correctly while sleeping may encounter a variety of health issues related to this condition. For those who have been infected by COVID-19, the effects of sleep apnea may become even more serious, and they may lead to life-threatening issues for those with severe cases. The concerns related to sleep apnea demonstrate the importance of proper treatment for those who suffer from this condition. Unfortunately, the recall of defective CPAP machines and ventilators that is currently being performed by Philips Respironics may make it more difficult for some to receive the treatment they need.

Study Links Sleep Apnea to More Severe COVID-19 Outcomes

A recent medical study looked at the role that sleep apnea may play in COVID-19 infections. Researchers found that those who suffer from sleep apnea are no more likely to be infected than the average person. However, for those with severe infections, sleep apnea is more likely to lead to more serious problems, including higher rates of hospitalization and death.

One of the key issues that affects people with severe Covid infections is hypoxia or a lack of oxygen. Covid can restrict a person’s airways and affect their lungs’ ability to process oxygen, and a lack of sufficient oxygen can lead to damage to multiple bodily systems. This issue can be compounded by sleep apnea. Those who suffer from this condition will often struggle to breathe properly while sleeping, and they may also experience hypoxia. These limitations on a person’s ability to receive sufficient oxygen may lead to permanent damage to organs, and they may experience ongoing health issues, including cognitive impairment. In the most severe cases, the combination of COVID-19 and sleep apnea may lead to a person’s death.

Following a major recall of CPAP machines, many people are unsure about their options for treating sleep apnea. The recalled devices, which were manufactured by Philips Respironics, contained a type of foam that could break down, and when small foam particles or certain types of chemicals entered a device’s airways, they could be inhaled by a device’s user. This could put users at risk of multiple types of injuries, including lung cancer and other serious illnesses. Unfortunately, many people have struggled to receive replacements for defective CPAP devices, leaving them uncertain about whether they should discontinue their use of a recalled device or go without treatment for sleep apnea. Fortunately, other treatment options may be available.

Alternative Sleep Apnea Treatments

Being able to treat sleep apnea effectively can be crucial for a person’s health. Most people with this condition suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, and the position of their tongue and jaw will interrupt their ability to breathe correctly while sleeping. This can result in a significantly reduced quality of sleep and cause drowsiness and fatigue. It can also lead to additional health issues, such as increased risks of strokes or heart attacks. 

Those who do not want to use a potentially dangerous CPAP machine or who are looking for options until a new CPAP becomes available may want to consider other treatments that can help address sleep apnea. These treatments may include:

Continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, devices are used to treat sleep apnea. By forcing air into the lungs, these machines ensure that a person will continue to breathe normally while they are sleeping. Effective treatment of sleep apnea has many benefits. However, the use of defective CPAP devices may increase the chances that a person will experience serious health conditions. One manufacturer, Philips Respironics, has recalled millions of CPAP machines because they contained a type of foam that could break down and release dangerous particles and chemicals. Users of the recalled devices may face the risk of multiple types of injuries and serious health conditions, including lung inflammation.

Symptoms and Effects of Lung Inflammation

Inflammation of the lungs involves irritation and swelling of the tissues in and around the body’s airways. When these tissues become inflamed, they can restrict airflow and make it more difficult for the body to absorb oxygen into the bloodstream. Some symptoms of lung inflammation include:

• Coughing and wheezing

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