Cannula types

[Difficul]

I have just discovered that there are soft tip cannulas and another type which is not so soft. Then some have a sort of ledge, intended I think, to block the nostrils above the tubes. All types seem a bit too big for my little nose. I am interested to hear about the cannula experiences of others.

[MoosterMoo]

Hi difficul, there are also straight tubes and curved tubes. I use the curved ones which seem to suit me. I have a choice of which ones I want when I order oxygen so maybe just try a few different ones and see which are the most comfortable?

[Biker88]

the little shelf/tab is actually a little handle to help fit the cannula and it points downward, personally I don’t find it very useful. If the cannula tips are curved the curve should point downwards. Speak to your oxygen provider or nurse to see what options are available and see if you can try some to see what you are most comfortable with

[Difficul in reply to Biker88]

I have now found another version. It is described as 'Salter style'. This is what I was given (and using without any problem) with ambulatory oxygen. Then the longer term type came with soft tip cannulas. I am still trying to work out where my nose problems came from. It could be the amount of airflow or the shape of the cannula. The bleeding might have been caused by the spray I tried. The recommended KY Jelly didn't help me at all. Then there is the dry skin and constipation that no-one seems to have mentioned. Most medications come with a list of possible side effects but not, it seems, home oxygen.

[sue32]

I have an oxygen concentrator and I find the curved prongs can a bit of a pain to be honest....I think I'm gonna ask for some straight prong ones. I'm sure they were straight prong cannulae when I was in hospital, I wasn't always checking them. These curved ones tend to tickle the inside of my nose....but I shouldn't complain really, life could be a lot worse....x

[Difficul]

Thank you, sue 32. If it is just a tickle, you could try snipping the end off the prong. As you say, until it happens you don't necessarily realise there is more than one type of prong. Sadly, my nose is still making scabs inside.