Winter in Nebraska is quickly approaching. My husband has a HME stoma cover but does not like using. Also has a nebulizer that he does not like to use. He prefers larygectomy tube only, no cover. He does cough quite a bit but I fear that will get worse with the dry, central heated air. Is there anyone that can share what to expect? Will he be able to be outside in the cold air? He doesn't have many problems with mucus plugs but will that increase during the winter? He is still working to regain energy from finishing his radiation and chemo.

Whose and what type HME stoma cover is he wearing and why does he not like it?

I wear ATOS hi-flow cassettes and love it. This requires one hand to speak. I have to two hands free valves and do not like either one plus I blow the adhesives all the time. I use In-Health's round PCV housing and adhesives to hold the cassettes. I can't imagine wearing a larygectomy tube, seems like it would be very uncomfortable. Coughing up mucous has to be easier with the valve than the tube. You just pull the value and replace it when done.

Have a humidifier installed on the heater and put another by the bed for nightime use. I do not wear my neck equipment to bed although they recommend you do. I like to give my skin a rest. Foam stoma covers will help if it is dry.

If you want catalog numbers of what I get, let me know. I do not have them with me.

Take care,
Eileen

I'll add my vote for humidifiers. Best thing I've ever done. Do not waste your money on the "cool mist" variety instead go for the steam or warm mist types. If you cant do the central system, at the very least get one for the bedroom.

Kevin

I think the one on my oil heating system was only $300 or $400. Not a lot of money anyway to protect one's health.

Take care,
Eileen

Thank you everyone, I've checked into cost of whole house humidifier and was pleased to find they aren't that much at all, will be a good investment. Thanks for the hint on the InHealth adhesives, he is to use ATOS HME but hated their adhesives so I will try InHealth--we have samples of both. Not sure why he has been told he has to have the larygectomy tube, his air path and swallowing path are completely separate with the reconstruction done. I need to check if that's why he has to have the tube. His case seems to be so unusual it's hard to find information and even has his home town docs scratching their heads, it's becoming quite frustrating to determine how to help him continue to progress and he seems to be fine just settling.

Hi Gerri,
I use In-Health BE6038-P tracheostoma value ($6.40) and BE6041 Regular Tape Discs ($12.xx for 30). They are cheap and clear and small but probably won't work with hands free HME because will blow seal. I apply Skin-Prep on skin before applying valve and adhesive. In-Health sells for $14.00. Can be had cheaper.

Valves are reusasable and I replace mine very two to three months. The valve needs to be cleaned each time it is removed, usually daily, with an adhesive remover. I can't remember the name of what I use. I will post that later. To do this, peel adhesive from the valve, pour some of the liquid remover on valve, and using your thumb, going in only one direction, rub adhesive into little balls and remove from valve. I add some warm water to this while rubbing it. It may take two tries to get it clean. Set it out to dry and it is as good as new in a couple of hours.

I have two different passageways also. I also have no voice box and have a TEP. I've never worn a larytube.

If you have more questions or problems finding the items at In-Health, send me an email.

Take care,
Eileen

Gerri,

I use Uni-Solve Adhesive remover from Smith and Nephew to clean the valve plate. I buy this at a medical supply store locally. I've never tried looking for it on the web. It costs about $12 to $14. A bottle lasts a couple of years.

Take care,
Eileen