Save 20% On Your First Autoship Order

Day
:
:
Online since 2002 |   866-316-0162

Articles and News

Types of Nasal Cannula for Oxygen Therapy

Types of Nasal Cannula for Oxygen Therapy
Taikhum Sadiq

Article Reviewed by Respiratory TherapistReviewed by Laura Castricone, Respiratory Therapist, August 24, 2022

Introduction     |     Types     |     Benefits

With the increased levels of pollution in the air, respiratory problems are one of the raging issues in the medical world. Millions around the world are affected by some of the smallest to the biggest respiratory issues. Basic breathing problems can turn into nightmares for some people. Allergies are a common thing that can also affect normalized breathing. For such people, supplemental oxygen has to be provided so that no other complications can take place.

What is Oxygen Cannula?

Oxygen cannulas are tube-like devices that supply supplementary oxygen from a source to the patient. The ends of the cannula are placed in the nostrils through which oxygen is delivered. Hence, these cannulas are also known as nasal cannulas.

When does one need a Nasal Cannula?

There are a number of conditions in which a person might lose the ability to breathe normally and need a comfortable nasal cannula to obtain supplementary oxygen.

  • Asthma
  • COPD
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Emphysema
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Pneumonia
  • Lung cancer
  • Pulmonary embolism

Types of Nasal Cannulas

Different types of nasal cannulas are categorized on the basis of prong shapes. Prongs are small tube openings inserted into the nostrils.

1. Curved Prong Cannula

McKesson Low Flow Adult Nasal Cannula

They are curved in shape and fit perfectly into the nostrils. They are designed keeping in mind the anatomy of the nose. McKesson Low Flow Adult Nasal Cannula is one of the best nasal cannulas with curved prongs.

 

2. Flared Prong Cannula

Shop Hudson RCI Over The Ear Nasal Cannula

They slowly broaden towards the opening end and are specifically designed to slow down the flow of oxygen. One of the popular flared prong cannulas is Hudson RCI Over The Ear Nasal Cannula.

 

3. Curved and Flared Prong Cannula

Shop CareFusion AirLife Standard Nasal Cannula

They are a combination of the above two and one of the most commonly used types of nasal cannula. CareFusion AirLife Nasal Cannula is one such combination. 

 

4. Straight Prong Cannula

Precision Medical EasyPulse Portable Oxygen Concentrator Cannula

The openings of this cannula are straight and designed to reach further up into the nasal passage. Precision Medical EasyPulse Oxygen Cannula is a straight-prong cannula.

 

Benefits of using Oxygen Cannulas

Improved breathing is one of the major benefits of using oxygen cannulas. Improved oxygen levels mean better breathing and normal health resulting in:

  • Increased agility and activeness
  • Better sleep
  • Longer lifespan
  • Better health

Risks associated with Oxygen Cannulas

Usually, they are risk-free, but carelessness during use might result in a number of problems.

  • Nasal dryness
  • Lung damage
  • Damage to the eyes
  • Oxygen toxicity


Oxygen cannulas are one of the most important parts of all oxygen delivery systems. They are easy to use and can be easily cleaned. The right type of cannula can help improvise and increase oxygen levels, thus resulting in better health. Choosing the right nasal cannula type should be one of the first steps when deciding what device or tools one should buy for supplying or using supplementary oxygen. They are the delivery tools of oxygen, and the wrong kind of cannula might cause loss of oxygen or further complications during therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nasal Cannula

  1. Which way do nasal cannula prongs go?

    Swivel and turn the cannula so that the cannula prongs are pointed upwards and fit inside the nostrils properly. Make sure the tubing is curved down towards you to avoid any kink and ensure an easy oxygen flow.

  2. How often should you wash the tubing?

    You can clean oxygen cannulas once per week using mild soap and detergent or vinegar and water solution. A cleaning mixture with equal parts water and vinegar is recommended for cleaning the cannula. Make sure the cannula is completely dried after washing for next use.

  3. How to make a nasal cannula more comfortable?

    To make the nasal cannula comfortable -

    • Identify the right sized cannula for proper fitting.
    • You can use a cannula ear protector to avoid chaffing, pressure injury, or rash on the sensitive tissues over the ears.
  4. How frequently should I replace my nasal cannula?

    It is advised to clean the cannula after every use and replace it every 2-4 weeks. Oxygen tubing can be replaced every two months.

Related Articles

 

Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics, and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.


 


HPFY Taikhum Sadiq

Taikhum Sadiq

LinkedIn Profile

 

Taikhum Sadiq has been a Health Products For You contributor since 2016.

He is an archaeology student and is passionate about learning about the past and how it impacts our future. He believes ...

Continue reading

Trending Articles

Enteral Feeding: The What, When, and How

Shweta Chaubey

When traditional oral intake is not feasible, enteral feeding comes into play. It supports nutritional needs of individuals recovering from an injury or surgery. Dive into this informative article and learn what, when, why, and how of enteral feeding and ensure optimal patient care.

Using the Carpal Solution Carpal Tunnel Wrist Support

Kevin Cleary

Looking for a non-invasive option to manage carpal tunnel symptoms? Experience relief from constant tingling and pain with this Carpal Solution Wrist Support. Read this article to know about the unique features and benefits of this wrist support brace designed to deal with CTS and find why it is one of the most reliable wrist braces available on the market.

Top 5 Best Reviewed Nebulizers of 2023

Kevin Cleary

Need an effective and affordable nebulizer? Look no further, in this article we offer 5 of our best reviewed nebulizers that are loved by our customers. Click to read more and find the perfect nebulizer for all your respiratory needs.

10 Best Overnight Adult Diapers

Shweta Chaubey

Worried about nighttime leaks? Say goodbye to leakage with our ten best overnight adult diapers and wake up refreshed and dry.

Five Best Cervical Traction Devices of 2023

Taikhum Sadiq

Neck pain can wreak havoc on your otherwise healthy life. Traction device improves your cervical health and overall well-being. Read more to find our best cervical traction devices designed to curb the stiffness and discomfort of cervical muscles.