Hi,Im recently diagnosed with bronchiectasis and emphysema .had asthma for 11yrs,does anyone know how to combat falling asleep at any given moment when you least expect it,i also having trouble keeping in my job due to these illnesses and am unsure if i qualify for benefit help?
Overwhelming Fatigue: Hi,Im recently... - Lung Conditions C...
Overwhelming Fatigue
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B0xermad
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I would suggest you ring the BLF phone number (red balloon on right) I do hope it helps you...I do get very tired at times and it drives me crazy, but I don't have the pressure of trying to keep a job, as I am retired. I do wish you all the best. 
Hi Boxer is it possible to reduce your hours at work and go part time? Have you been there longer than 2 years? Do your employers know about your illnesses? Have they made any 'reasonable adjustments' to help you keep your job? Are you in a union? You might qualify for medical retirement which is much better than just leaving or being sacked.
Regarding benefits you might qualify for ESA (Employment and Support Allowance) which is for those either too ill to work or only able to work reduced hours. You might also qualify for PIP (Personal Independant Payment) which is extra money because of your illnesses. This money is disregarded when working out other benefit entitlement. I agree your best bet is to ring the BLF and ask to speak to a benefits advisor. Good luck x
Offcut in reply to
Got to be careful with the ESA. The reduced hours are only in Jobs sanctioned by the DWP or council as fit for the purpose of people with disabilities. Even if your employer has met all the right conditions if it is not approved then you would be classed as fit for work and at the best be put in the WRAC group to find you work!
DLA Or PIP as it has become will not affect you ability to work and still be paid. They are still in meltdown and taking forever. unless you have a DS1500 then they have to deal within 3 weeks.
Gov benefit advisor link below
B0xermad in reply to
hi coughalot1,good name.i have contacted blf and yes to all the above,i have downloaded and printed ESA form and contacted PIP to register although they said 26wks for answer,work have been good but as i work 1-1 in a school they really cannot do many adjustments,i did have an episode of coughing and breathlessness yesterday and had to come home after 1hr 45mins was only working 2hrs.they have had to give my contract to someone else for september as i cannot fulfill that 31 hrs anymore,feeling quite worthless today,but hey tomorrow could be better.
Welcome Bo. Good advice from your friends above. cx
Have you talked to your doctor apparently Copd sufferers have a higher incidence of sleep apnea - it maybe worth investigating? Good advice from others also take care, TAD xx
The first thing you must do is tell your work that you are disabled. It helps to become registered disabled with your local county council. Your employer should then be very wary of doing anything too much because if you ever go to an employment tribunal and mention disability there is no cap on what you can receive.
The definition of disability is in the Equality Act. They must make reasonable adjustments for you.
Judith
Hi BO
I know exactly what you mean. I can go so tired so suddenly I just have to sit down, I'm asleep in seconds. I've even done it when in other peoples homes.
Do phone the blf they will give you advise. Good luck. x
I am waiting for a sleep apnea test myself as I wake gasping for breath some days. Not slept well since 2008.
If you are taking any of the corticosteroid medications theyusually have, in the fine print, a warning that they can affect the function of your adrenal glands. This can have the effect of fatigue etc.
Also something you may want to talk with yout GP about to see if they can recommend anything.
There are natural remedies availabe that help stimulate the adrenal system to help provide more energy.
B0xermad in reply to
going to doc tuesday thanks
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