Stigma about breathing problems
I'm having a really bad few days right now. Great difficulty breathing and accomplishing small tasks. I'm trying really hard to hide it from family and friends. I'm a smoker and while I'm aware I have to quit I still have to deal with the here and now. I also work full time and have to try to mask it there as well. I have no one to be honest with about how I'm feeling. I have a bunch of prednisone and I'm really tempted to start taking it but I'm starting a new treatment on Wednesday and I really want to be able to judge my reaction to it. I don't know how I'm going to get through the next few days. Any other illness I'd be able to be upfront about but I feel I have to hide this.
Hi again, and thanks for your comment here. I recall our conversation (yesterday), about something related which we've continued today. For ease of reference, here is a link to that conversation: https://copd.net/forums/copd-and-nucala#reply-106163.
However, based on what you've shared here with the community, it's understandable how you're feeling.
It certainly can be challenging managing this condition but, if one is keeping it from family, friends and colleagues at work, the challenge can be even greater. It can be easier to manage this condition with a strong support system.
You have certainly come to the right place as, in our online community, our members know exactly how you feel and understand what you're going through.
If you are starting a new treatment on Wednesday, this may not be the right time to start prednisone, as you said. This is something you'll want to discuss with your prescribing physician.
I remember in yesterday's conversation, you mentioned you were going to start Nucala injections. Is this the new treatment you are starting on Wednesday?
Wishing you well,
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)Yes, I start the Nucala on Wednesday.
My heart goes out to you as I read this. It's very difficult to be in the situation you find yourself in. We're always happy to be of support and listed anytime you need to vent - so please take us up on that. You mentioned that you work full time. Does your employer offer an Employee Assistance Program? Many do and although it's not the same as speaking to a trusted friend, you may be able to connect with someone that can listen.
I hope it goes well tomorrow with the start of the Nucala - please let us know.
Best,
Lyn (COPD. net site moderator)what are nucala injections? never heard of them
I also never heard of nucala injections, what is that.
Hi @CommunityMember43cfc0 thanks for reaching out. It is a treatment for severe asthma. This article may help you understand it a bit more: https://copd.net/living/lung-health. Jill, COPD.net, team member
