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Does anyone work full time with COPD and oxygen? The bad part is my job is to talk , all day non stop , I’m in sales over the phone, and I’m worried about returning

  1. , This is one of the hardest and heartfelt questions we have to ask ourselves, is will our COPD allow us to continue working. It was a tough decision for me because I loved my job and I was very good at it. In the end, my body made the choice for me and I had to throw in the towel. I wonder if a work from home arrangement would work better for you. I still work everyday but I only work from home now. Please circle back and let us know what you have decided. Barbara Moore (Moderator)

    1. Thank you for responding! I do work at home now, I’m a remote health insurance agent, but every time I talk my 02 levels drop to 85 , and it’s a fast paced high pressure job . I guess I have to try and see how it goes

      1. I still work full time and part of my job is to talk as well. I am lucky in the sense we don't get a lot of calls, but I do get some. Sometimes too much talking can bring on a coughing fit. I started out with portable tanks lugging them into work and it wasn't easy, but I did it. About 4 years ago I switched to the portable concentrator and that made a huge difference. I would carry the plug with me so when it drained, I could plug it into my desk at work. It feels awkward but afterwhile your co-workers get used to it and it becomes a normal routine. Yes, I still need to work for my insurance. I used oxygen 24 / 7. The choice is up to you.

        1. Agreed and when the pandemic hit my job switched to remote. I am still remote but it's still the same work of talking on the phones and alots of multi-tasking.

        2. Hi grace - I hear you!! Thanks for your reply and further explanation. We appreciate your conversation here!
          All the best,
          Leon (site moderator COPD.net)

      2. I understand your position as I was faced with the same 7 years ago when I returned back to my job with portable oxygen tank. I work in customer service which requires me to talk on the phone, emails, etc. I eventually changed to portable concentrator and carried the re-charging plug with me for when it drained too low. It can be done and just have to pace yourself. The choice is really up to you.

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