With sarcoidosis, improving my quality of life requires no time off

I was admitted to the hospital twice in the last week. I had apparently begun to develop subcutaneous emphysema, which occurs when air becomes trapped behind the skin. Crepitus, a cracking sound caused by pushing on the air-filled tissue, can result.

In my situation, it’s due to pulmonary sarcoidosis and spontaneous pneumothoraces, which have injured my lungs. My neck, mouth, and cheeks swelled with air as a result of the subcutaneous emphysema, and the pressure in my throat affected my voice. It sounded like Rice Krispies when I pressed on the affected area.

In 2018, I was admitted to the hospital with the same issue, and physicians intubated me because they suspected my airway was damaged. Fortunately, this time was not as critical. The air did not spread further.

During my hospitalisation, I had time to consider my next actions in terms of recovery. My workout routine and diet would remain my basis, but I realised I needed to improve in other areas of my life. So, where do I start?

After being released, I went to the gym and spoke with another member I see frequently. He exercises regularly and goes for walks twice a day when the weather permits. He informed me that he admires me for bringing my oxygen tank to the gym and working out as much as I can.

determine how you will spend the rest of your life. It became terrifyingly evident to me how simple it is to do nothing.

I did nothing except watch television while I was in the hospital. It was convenient because there was no fee to utilise it. It was simple to stay in bed and watch TV all day.

As we continued to converse, he made the argument that since criminals never take a day off, why should we? It made complete sense. Every day I did nothing but watch television was a day I didn’t have to worry about my health.

When you’re dealing with chronic sickness, stress, or mental health concerns, it’s easy to accept your situation. That thinking has the potential to paralyse us and prevent us from acting. If you believe your illness will control your life, it will. To become a better version of yourself, you must sometimes challenge your thoughts.

The man at the gym informed me that he worked out primarily to get out of the home and do something. I concurred.

My relatives and friends frequently make fun of my inability to sit still. Even with my health issues, I simply cannot sit back and let the four walls close in on me. I slipped into this trap when in the hospital, but I’d rather be outside doing something – otherwise, I’m focused on my health difficulties rather than enhancing my quality of life.