Adjusting to Your Tracheostomy Tube
It may take you some time to adjust to your tracheostomy. You may wonder how it will affect your daily life. And you will need to make some changes. But you can get used to having a tracheostomy tube (“trach tube”). Your family, friends, and healthcare providers can help.
When you shower or bathe, keep water away from the trach tube opening.
Learning to Adjust
At first, you may be scared, angry, or depressed about having a trach tube. This is common. You need to give yourself time to adjust. Using and caring for your trach tube will get easier and less awkward with time. Also, you may find that some people may be curious about your tube. They may stare or ask you questions. Decide how you will respond to this. And remember that your friends and family still love you for who you are, with or without your trach tube.
Living Your Daily Life
To make living with your trach tube easier and safer, try these tips:
Keep your tube and stoma dry when you bathe or shower. A hand-held shower nozzle may be helpful. Use a shower shield, if you are told to.
Do not put anything into your trach tube that doesn’t belong there. Never smoke through your trach tube. If you smoke, your healthcare provider can help you quit.
Cover your tube if you go to places where the air is dusty or dirty. Place a thin, damp cloth or bandage over the end of the tube to act as a filter. Be sure that air can still get into and out of your tube.
Sit down and rest for a few minutes if you feel upset or begin to gag. Breathe slowly and deeply. If this is a problem for you, tell your doctor. He or she can help you learn to relax.
For Family and Friends
A person with a tracheostomy needs to learn a new way to breathe. He or she needs time to adjust. Be patient and supportive. Know that the person you love hasn’t changed. Try to keep in mind the points below:
Learn how to care for the tracheostomy, in case your loved one needs help. Ask a healthcare provider to help you learn what to do.
Be alert for signs of a problem with the tracheostomy. If your loved one has a hard time breathing, call 911 right away.
Try to be patient. Your loved one may become upset or angry at times. Having a tracheostomy can be frustrating, especially at first.
Encourage your loved one to get back to normal activities, including going out. Help him or her get used to being in public with the trach tube.