u/mustdache

Hi all, I've been dealing with some health issues for a year now, all seemingly random issues that have had me out on STD 2x this year for a total of 12 weeks. I returned from my latest STD less than a month ago and am now being encouraged by my HR department to apply for LTD after my workplace accommodations were asked and denied. The root cause of my issues has been figured out and surgery could eliminate the need for accommodations afterwards. They say this is a bridge for me to be able to return to work after surgery this fall.

Is this a trick? I've been taught that LTD is a way for them to push people out... I'm very nervous and stressed, I'm a good employee and have been there for a LONG time with no issues... I just have some medical conditions that are kicking my butt right now...

I have confirmed stage 4 endometriosis and am scheduling with an excision specialist for surgery this fall.

I am new to the endo world and am wondering what a flare-up is like for everyone? I work a remote job with lots of road time and today was my first road day since returning from an unrelated surgery that found the endo. And I felt like I just got hit with the flu/norovirus for like 2 hours. Constipated diarrhea, cold sweats, deep abdominal pain and cramps, horrific back pain, very sudden severe nausea, and shakiness. Not sure if I overdid it and this is the result? I've had this happen before, but before the endo diagnosis I was told it was "anxiety".

What are your flares like? And does anything help lessen once it's started?