tiredness

[CHRISpor]

Hi I am still working I have interstitial lung disease some days I get so tired but I can't go sick and say I'm tired so what do I do please help

[Caspiana]

Hello CHRISpor .

I truly sympathise. I was working the year my lung disease was diagnosed. I worked in a school and although teaching wasn't so bad, it was things like the stairs and carrying my load of teaching materials that was just so hard to manage.

What kind of work do you do? Does your place of work know about your condition? If not, why not? How long have you been ill? What kind of lung disease do you suffer from?

I think we are all aware of the horrible fatigue that comes with lung disease. I am truly sorry you are struggling. Please give us more information if you'd like to.

Gentle hugs.

Cas xx 🙋🐕

[CHRISpor in reply to Caspiana]

I was diagnosed last January with interstitial lung disease my job is Mobile dental unit driver with nhs they know about my condition but don't seem to understand if I get a really bad day and need to stay at home I can't really phone in and say I'm off sick reason tired.

[Caspiana in reply to CHRISpor]

Do you have a supervisor you could speak with? Would it be possible to work lesser hours or get a transfer to a less taxing job within the NHS?

[CHRISpor in reply to Caspiana]

Not really i can't afford to cut my hrs and I'm the only driver to its hard

[Caspiana in reply to CHRISpor]

I understand. I wish I could say something constructive, but all I can say is the only people who can control your work load and the nature of your work are those you work for. I won't say look for an alternative because I know that is easier said than done.

I wonder if the BLF helpline would be worth trying to call? They might have some constructive advice. In any case you need help and more rest. I hope a solution is found for you. Please keep up updated.

Cas xx 🌹

blf.org.uk/support-for-you/...

[CHRISpor in reply to Caspiana]

Ok many thanks will keep you updated

[Hidden]

So sorry I know Chris I am so tired too..

Did you have your adrenal glands checked?

Actually exercise fights fatigue I didn’t believe it until I went to pulmonary rehabilitation..I would ask for that so you can have the time off work.

Ask for respiratory physiotherapy as well, they help

Have a vitamin and mineral check-up.

Take care Chris xx

Fran

[Helen6]

Hi CHRISpor, when you are feeling tired this is a symptom of your illness, so you should be telling work that you are ill rather than tired. As you work for the NHS, they should understand this and be making special provision for you. Ask for an occupational health appointment. They will write a report detailing any provision that should be put in place to enable you to keep working for as long as possible. I carried on working for 2 years after diagnosis with IPF and I remember the fatigue well. Fortunately, as I was the boss, I could ring in and say I'm struggling, expect me when you see me. Everyone was understanding but I knew when it was time to go, so I'd advise you to start exploring options such as early retirement and the benefits you could be entitled to. I know it's difficult when you are ill but try and think ahead and be proactive. Perhaps you have a partner or friend who can support you with this.

Best Wishes,

Helen