Went back to work after five months it is harder then I thought it would be I still have problems thinking and trying to explain what I'm dealing with to my co workers they all want to help and be supportive but they really don't understand why I'm not the same as I was before I got sick

Have you given them any information about IIH to read? Ask them to have a look at the IH Research Foundation website it will give them lots of information and a better understanding. Trying to explain it is very hard and stressful because you are trying so hard to give them information, while at the same time trying to get them to understand what you're going through. By getting them to go to the IHRF website everything is there from symptoms through treatment to research.

I went back to work after being off for several years, so I completely understand! I have good and bad days, but have small group of co-workers that support me. Unfortunately, we don't look sick and anything people read is going to suggest that you have this condition because you're an overweight woman..which usually suggests to people that it's in your control. If this isn't the case for you, then you might get more understanding. I honestly have had to learn not to deal with the majority of people and focus on the positive/supportive folks. There is some good information in the Useful Guides and Print Outs section, so I would suggest starting there and using IHRF for those people who really seem interested in your well being.

I would also suggest looking into FMLA for protection once you have worked 1250 hours because there are co-workers and employers that will use IIH against you. I hate to sound so negative, but it comes from experience. I've lost jobs and have been made miserable because of my limitations.. definitely take the time to learn the policies and protect yourself.

Good luck, and most importantly, take care of yourself!!!

Julie

Congrats on being able to give working a try. Don't over do, rest when you can, and try to keep stress levels down. It may take a bit to get back to full power, so don't be hard on yourself if things are taking a bit longer to do.
I agree with the others as far as getting info about IH out to your coworkers. You may want to run off a bunch of copies of the "how to talk to" as well as "the Spoon Theory", so when someone asks, you can offer them the printouts. I think you'll be surprised as to how many people really are interested in learning more.

Thank you all for the advice it is very helpful sometimes I think maybe I went back to soon but my boss has been really great itks just hard on those days when your brain is in the fog and you can't think again for your advice

Can you see if your boss will allow you to work a few hours less everyday until you can gather up steam? Even if it's just a hour or two less, it may help.