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Old 8th Sep 2010, 19:43
  #124 (permalink)  
mrskytec
 
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Leicestershire
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Unhappy The practical side of ET- telling the employer

Dear All,

Writing on behalf of my fiancee who has been suffering with a blocked ET (or so the recent diagnosis said) for around 8 months. All started after being off sick, but being pressured by the airline to go into work. A couple of times later she got an ear infection, and one offload in Paris later she was back with ear pain which has been the case ever since.

She has now been off work for a few weeks, and finally got her ENT appointment a couple of weeks ago. It was pretty much what we've read on here already- no real understanding of the problem, let alone appreciation of the work/earning a living situation.

Without having any sympathy from the doctors, and no supportive diagnosis from the ENT clinic, it's very difficult getting cover to take further time off work.

I'm convinced that some of the treatments talked about on here will work- especially as she has never suffered with any sort of ear trouble before in her life. She just needs some time off work.
The airline concerned will agree a new shift pattern, IF it is backed up by a doctor's letter; but even then, it's too soon for her to go back.

How do you communicate this to a doctor though?! They seem to shrug off the problem- "stop flying" is the general advice.

Does any one have any practical suggestions for clearing the way for time off work, with a doctors support, for an ET problem- allowing for some rest, treatment, and then a gradual return to work?

Appreciate any advice!

All the best
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