For those who have sleep apnea disorder, the Department of Veterans Affairs and Tricare are notifying patients that CPAP machines have been recalled. CPAP machines are used to treat sleep apnea, also known as sleep apnea syndrome, which is when breathing stops and starts intermittently while one is asleep.

In light of the recall, it is unclear how many patients are affected as Tricare issued an identical notice to its members and has not provided any information on the number of affected patients. Approximately 600,000 veterans received the devices as a benefit of Tricare. Patients who suffer from sleep apnea complain about snoring loudly and feeling tired after sleeping for a whole night.

Being recalled are the CPAP and BiLevel PAP devices. These were manufactured by Philips Respironics before April 26, 2021. It is possible that small pieces of foam and dust may have entered the air hose and the breathing masks due to the damage to the sound-reducing insulation in the affected machines.

It has been reported that Philips Respironics has recalled more than 3.5 million products worldwide in response to the recall. The VA advises those with an affected machine to continue using it until a replacement device arrives, explaining that any potential risk is likely to be less than what might occur if the treatment is not received.

Should you have any questions about this matter, it is best to speak to your physician.

According to Phillips Respironics, foam breakdowns are more likely in devices more than three-year-old devices, devices used in high-heat or high-humidity environments, or devices cleaned with an ozone device regularly.

There is a possibility that manufacturers will ship their patients' replacement devices directly to them. Philips will, however, send the VA their replacement devices for calibration before they issue them to some veterans.

Should you have any questions about the recall, it would be best for you to speak to your physician.