Work is making an occupational health referral because of Achalasia.

[Guest guest]

Dear Friends,

Unfortunately, my cunning plan concerning reclaiming my life from Achalasia has

backfired!!

After the recent cancellation of my Esophagectomy, instead of embracing life and

managing my condition, my swallowing has deteriorated, I have major esophageal

pain at night [can only sleep on back not on side] and have had to start

regurgitating stuck food again. Today I have had constant pain behind the

sternum like a pulled muscle. I am tired and look ill.

I became extremely anxious and depressed and am off work. Been prescribed

Cipralex which started off making me even more anxious before it started slowly

working.

My boss was not best pleased that the operation did not go ahead, he wanted me

to come back to work " fixed " . So he has instigated an occupational health

referral to a private company called " Industrial Medical and Safety Services

Ltd "

This is in order to " gain some prognosis of the longer term impact...given the

unusual nature of the condition " . It just so happens that work [i work for a

mental health charity] is undergoing a period of rationalisation and

reorganisation - I think they are looking for an excuse to get rid of me.

I am seeing Mr Maynard next Monday for an Endoscopy. He has asked me to be on

liquids for 24hrs and nothing 6hrs before the procedure [i think he wants to

have a real good look before deciding how to proceed] I am thinking I need to

be proactive in dealing with my Achalsia or I am going to lose my job.

I think he may suggest a TSE but we shall see when he has a look. Has anyone

else had a health referral because of Achalasia and if so can you offer any

hints??

Regards

tim