Posted 10/25/2015 5:51 AM (GMT 0)
I think it depends on how severe the flare is, and if there's a pattern to your flares, where you work, etc. When I was first diagnosed, I worked part time, but it was 10 bathroom trips a day. The worse of it was the first few hours of the day, but sometimes I had problems later. I carried a change of clothes with me, and wore the super long maxipads for security. It was extremely stressful going anywhere where a bathroom was not immediately available. Only you folks can know what I mean. Even a brief commute was stressful.
The flares that I have had, usually I have the worst symptoms first 1-2 hours of waking up. So, I get a little more confidence after that. Though, I still might have a few 1-2 trips later in the day. I never called in sick to work. I never confided my condition to employers. This time, I am working in a situation where I sometimes have no access to a bathroom for several hours. So, I did tell my boss that I have a health condition, and sometimes I might have to go home sick if I am feeling very unwell. She was very cool about it and told me it's fine. I am a hard worker, and she knows I am passionate about my job. I did reschedule a meeting or two when I was having a bad day, but luckily, I am getting better fast and it hasn't been too bad.
I did tap out on this flare and ask my GI if I could get zofran and take immodium, though. I was vomiting sometimes and needing immodium for those rough days on the job. I usually feel shakey and weak before I get sick, so I know it's coming. I think we all do the best we can. We all have different pain, patterns, etc. I was feeling so nauseated and awful this time. I didn't want to vomit at work where everyone could hear me. Don't beat yourself up if you need to take time off. Trust your own instincts to take care of your own needs. This illness is really tough to deal with! I find so much comfort in knowing others are fighting the same fight. I am not battling it alone. Best wishes!