Dr Xand van Tulleken (Falling ailing made me realise the true marvel of the NHS, 19 March) says he’ll repeat to his sufferers the recommendation that an A&E physician gave him: “You mustn’t let being ailing make you suppose otherwise about your self. You’re nonetheless the identical individual, only one little bit of you isn’t working very properly.”
I’m affected by lengthy Covid, and if any physician mentioned this to me I’d be damage and offended. A part of the agony of lengthy Covid is that you simply actually should not the individual you had been earlier than. You lose lots: work, leisure, possibly the flexibility to stroll for a size of time. You could lose buddies and family who can’t deal with the prognosis and its implications. You’re present process a profound change that can little question affect in your sense of self for years. Anybody who says “don’t suppose otherwise about your self” on this scenario is a Panglossian fantasist.
I urge medics to stay conscious of the unequal energy dynamic between affected person and physician, and to withstand imposing their view of how the affected person ought to really feel about their sickness. They should be open to understanding the expertise of the individual in entrance of them.
Sean Kenny
London
Final Thursday, I used to be barely hoarse so did two lateral circulation checks earlier than going to my choir rehearsal. Each had been unfavourable. On Friday, I developed a cough, sore throat and runny nostril, however once more the LFT was unfavourable so I assumed I had a chilly. On Saturday, my solely remaining symptom was a slight sore throat, so I deliberate to participate in my choir’s live performance that night time – besides that this time my LFT was optimistic.
Thank goodness for the supply of free LFTs, with out which I might have unfold Covid round my choir. How silly of our populist prime minister to take away free LFTs from April.
Jennifer Jenkins
London
