About using the XtraHME when you breathe through a tracheostoma

This video shows Mr Leeuwen (the Netherlands) who is laryngectomized, talking about his experiences using the Provox XtraHME (heat and moisture exchanger).

A laryngectomized person no longer breathes through the nose or mouth, but from a hole in the neck - a tracheostoma. A heat and moisture exchanger (HME) works as an artificial nose -- it helps to heat and moisturize inhaled air. It retains humidity in the airways that would otherwise be lost by breathing through an open tracheostoma. As a result many users experience fewer problems with coughing and mucus production. This improves sleep -- and the quality of life.