hello to you all iaam new to this

[darren47]

i am 47 years young have severe emphysema/copd i was just wondering if these symptoms are classed as a disabilty

[Hidden]

You don't say what symptoms you have?

[darren47 in reply to Hidden]

i have severe emphysema/copd

[Gordon57]

A disability in what sense? Yes, it is, but I'm not sure if you're trying to find out if you need further treatment, are looking at benefits or just unsure of your diagnosis.

Depending on your condition and ability to look after yourself you may need to be referred for tests, rehabilitation, or whatever to ensure that you can cope with your condition.

Benefits are a minefield and very difficult to advise on, even if you have a severe diagnosis. I'm well down the path of applying for, having an ATOS assessment, appealing and awaiting tribunal for DLA for example.

It may be an idea to explore the BLF website - blf.org.uk - and perhaps call their helpline on Monday to see if they can be of more assistance.

[darren47 in reply to Gordon57]

i have been diagnosed as having severe emphysema/copd & awaiting a lung transplant, ialso have a selection of medicational drugs to take.i am also going to pulmary rehab and have regular visists to a blf hospital

[Gordon57 in reply to darren47]

Going back to your original question: i was just wondering if these symptoms are classed as a disabilty

Yes, it is a disability, but I asked in what sense? What are you trying to achieve by defining your condition as a disability?

Are you looking to apply for a blue badge, for disabled people ?

Do you need a bus pass, on disability grounds?

Are you out of work and looking at benefits?

...something else...?

Almost anything will depend on the severity of the condition. Others have pointed out that you could be diagnosed as severe yet be able to lead a pretty active life and have a full time job. I have managed to gain a disability travel pass and a blue badge but had to be assessed for both.

Originally you didn't mention that you were awaiting a transplant, but it's still not clear what you are trying to find out. The simple answer is yes, it's a disability. The more curious amongst us will then wonder why you were asking as it was sort of self explanatory really.

The BLF website has loads of information, if you can't find answers there then call their helpline. It would be easier, and more confidential, to have a chat with them than trying to give a fuller answer here.

[Hidden]

Darren I know I am not the only one on here with COPD who was still working at severe/very severe stage. Others have to give up earlier. It depends on how the condition effects you. For some it is a nuisance. For others it is very disabling. For lots it is somewhere inbetween. Where you are will depend on the severity, the symptoms, your general fitness and lots of other things. As Gordon says, if you have a more specific question you need to say so. Whatever it is you are looking for advice on, the BLF helpline (03000 030 555) would probably be a good starting point. Good luck.

[darren47 in reply to Hidden]

i have been diagnosed as very severe by the specialist and my gp awaiting transplant

[Katlover in reply to darren47]

how restricted are you in your mobility darren?

are you well enough to work?

are you on continuous oxygen?

can you climb the stairs?

are you able to walk on flat ground?

[darren47 in reply to Katlover]

limited movement around home

no am classed as unfit to work

awaitng assesment

cannot climb stairs without a rest half way up

limited walking on flat ground to 100meteres

[Katlover in reply to darren47]

From what you say darren, Gordon is right in that you really should ring BLF helpline and talk to them and they will give you the advice you need as to what you would be able to and should be claiming for.

I have only ever heard wonderful feedback about the helpline

best of luck and let us know how you go

Kat

xxx

[Hidden]

It all depend how much your symptoms are disabling you at the current time. I'm intrigued about the blf hospital you mention above to Gordon, or did you mean the Respirtory clinic at the hospital?

Any way to be sure of your query and as suggested above call the BLF helpline or email them.

The helpline telephone number is open Monday to Friday normal working weekedays from 10am to 3pm

The email is: [e-mail]

PR will get you fit enough for the lung op hopefully and you will learn how to manage your symptoms and avoid further infections.

All good wishes

[Hidden]

Hi darren, welcome to our site,

rose xxx