Office survival guide: chronic illness edition

As part of my current role, I go into the office twice a month. Before this, I worked fully remote and it was nice but became a little isolating. I was worried about having to go into the office because of my health, but I've learnt how to cope with it well.

My main concern was my stomach issues, which have improved a lot since my last surgery, but I still have my bad days. I started with always taking an anti diarrhea medication as the early morning and stress of 'What if my stomach goes off' did actually make my stomach poorly. The tablet helps but it has its consequences. So I've been working on not taking it unless I absolutely have to.

It's been 8 months and I've done quite well with surviving my office days so I wanted to share my tips.

The night before I try and pick my outfit, something comfortable, and pack my bag. I also try and have a 'safe' food dinner which would be something gluten free or carb free, not fried, usually something plain. My breakfast involves gluten free toast with banana or porridge with banana and I try to eat early enough to leave me time for any possible toilet issues. I try to sleep early since I know it'll be an early morning.

In my bag I pack my medications, pain killers, stomach medication, heat patches, extra allergy medication and epi pens, plus, all the usual essentials. If its not a hot day, i take a cardigan as the office can get quite cold and the cold can cause pain.

I try to not do anything strenuous the day before and don't plan anything for the day after as I know it would cause a flare. The evening and the day after an office day are usually a little painful but since I've been going in more, it has been getting easier.

When I am unwell, in any capacity, I don't go in and im grateful that my manager is very supportive with this.

I know everyone needs different things to feel comfortable and avoid flares but I hope my little routine is helpful. It is nice to have this flexibility and I do like going in as it's a change of environment and I get to see my work friends and just have a good day outside.