Please find listed several common questions that are frequently asked in relation to tracheostomies and their limitations.

Q: Will a tracheostomy hurt?
A: The initial wound will cause some discomfort whilst it heals and you will be offered pain relief to help deal with this. Once the tracheostomy is established the tube should not cause pain. Patient’s sometimes report periods of coughing when the tube moves but not pain. If you experience excessive coughing then it may be necessary to try another tube size or design. This should be discussed with your clinician in charge of your tracheostomy needs.

Q: Will I be able to speak with a tracheostomy?
A: Your ability to speak with a tracheostomy will depend on your voice before the tracheostomy, the reason why you need a tracheostomy and the type and size of tube you have inserted.

Your speech and language therapist will work with you following tracheostomy formation to work towards you speaking. This can often start the next day following theatre and involves deflating the cuff (balloon) on the tube and placing a speaking valve on the tube. This then re-directs the airflow back out through your nose and mouth. It is not unusual to require a change of tube type and/or size to improve your speech.

Q: Can I still bath or shower?
A: You can bathe and shower with especial care to prevent water from going into your tracheostomy. There are aides such as shower guards which will provide a cover over the tracheostomy during showering. You may need to change tracheostomy ties or tapes if they get wet as they may cause skin soreness if left on wet.

Q: How often will I need to change my tube?
A: It is advisable to change your tube once a month, this ensures the tube is kept clean and reduces the risk of infection. It should be changes more frequently if you are aware of any odour or discharge from the site.

Q: How often will I need to use a nebuliser?
A: Not all patients with a tracheostomy use or need a nebuliser, but they can be a useful method of loosening secretions if you are prone to dry secretions or have a chest infection.

Q: Can I travel with a tracheostomy?
A: Yes, with foresight and organisation the tracheostomy should not itself prevent you from travel. You will need to discuss specific details with your hospital specialist nurse or community nurse. They will assist you with organising supplies sufficient to support your clinical needs for the duration of your travel. It may also be necessary to set up temporary access to a General Practitioner and/or hospital services.

If you intend to fly then special arrangements will need to be considered if you have a cuffed tracheostomy tube (due to changes in cabin pressures) or you require equipment and/or scissors in the cabin with you. It is also necessary to inform your travel insurance company with relevant clinical details.