Is it possible to shower with nasal cannulae?
Hi voni17 and thanks for your post. We have had this question posed before by various community members. The good news is 'yes', it is possible to shower while wearing your nasal cannula device. Clearly, there are some precautions you should be aware of to keep yourself safe.
Naturally, make certain your oxygen source (cylinder or concentrator) is secure. It also is a good idea to drape your nasal cannula tubing to insure the water that strikes the tubing is running/draining away from you. I would also suggest you prevent the water from striking your face directly. And finally, you may want to have a friend or relative stay close to you in case you need assistance of some kind. It's safer than being alone until you get used to doing this and find yourself comfortable taking a shower.
These are the thoughts that come to mind immediately.
I also thought you might want to look over this article for some additional ideas: https://copd.net/answers/expert-answers-showering/.
I hope this brief reply provides you with some additional insight for your concern. What do you think? Leon (site moderator)Thanks so much for your help. I am new here so it takes me a while. I did find some other conversations about showering with a nasal cannula that were also helpful. I have only tried it once and it wasn't too bad, but I was worried about water getting into it, so it didn't go all that well. I am going to try again, as I find it takes so much energy for me to just shower I could not believe it. Anyway, I feel more comfortable with it now and won't worry as much, which will help. Thanks again for the feedback, it really helped.
My issue is a lot like your own.When a copd patient is exposed to a hot humid environment it causes something called arterial de saturation.Have no idea what it means but i know it really messes you up.
Tepid baths ,fans, door open all help immensely.
Take care..bob
Hi voni7 and thanks for the feedback. So glad to hear the information was helpful to you. I thought directing the shower water stream away from your face, will help to minimize the chances of water getting into the tubing. No need to worry - you're right - just be vigilant and careful while you're in the shower and it should go smoothly. Again, it's a good idea to have someone you trust close by to handle any unforeseen circumstances and/or provide you with whatever assistance you may need. Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator)
Thanks for your response to showering with Oxygen on. Will try it with an open window and fan on and shower stool. I don't know why my doctor said not to wear OXYGEN in the shower.
Yes you can
Hi again, Mya2, and thanks for joining in the conversation here. Do you have experience using supplemental oxygen in the shower? Are you able to share with the community? Leon (site moderator)
