AN OSA SUFFERER’S EXPERIENCE
Page 16
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
A 35-year-old HGV driver at RJ Jones Group in Holywell, North Wales, says his experience has shown him that being diagnosed with OSA does not necessarily mean losing your job.
He says he used to feel exhausted during the day and would regularly consume more than 3,500 calories just to generate the energy to stay awake. Naturally, he piled on the weight, which only made his sleepiness worse.
But concern over his health and the safety of other motorists prompted him to get referred to a specialist in sleep disorders, who quickly diagnosed his condition. He was then told that he would be unable to drive until he got treatment.
But he adds that the DVLA, his doctor and RJ Jones were helpful and supportive and he was provided with a continuous positive airway pressure machine very quickly. This meant he could continue to drive, as long as he always uses the breathing apparatus at night.
“The first night was the first proper night’s sleep I have had in probably 20 years,” he says. “I no longer have night sweats, or get up to go to the toilet several times; it changed my life overnight. I have also lost two and a half stone and it’s still falling off me. My energy levels are through the roof.
“The DVLA has given me a one-year licence and after that it will give me my full licence back.”