If someone doesn't have insurance, one is pretty screwed. I am betting you don't. It is delusional to think one can afford a pulmonary doctor. Over 300 bucks just to walk in the door... then what? I know what you mean about working a shorter shift and being exhausted the rest of the day. With COPD, one can't just sit and do nothing...so working is valuable. At some point, though, are you just working to pay for meds and seeing your regular doctor? Rehab does help and if you can't afford the classes and your insurance doesn't pay for it, go on Youtube and look for classes, weight training, diets and exercises classes. All of it will help you get stronger. Cleaning a dusty, dirty place isn't a great job for someone with COPD. I do hope you wear a mask. Have you thought of applying for disability? It is difficult, but if you really are sick, they will help.
Good luck!

Definitely agree that you need to see a pulmonologist regarding your COPD. One of the things I would discuss with her is getting involved in a Pulmonary Rehab class. Exercise will help you build your stamina and endurance so that working might be significantly easier for you. Your current job may not be a good choice for you and your state's Vocational Rehabilitation agency may be able to help you find work that will be easier for you and allow you to continue to work while not irritating any of your chronic conditions. I worked very hard to exercise and lose weight so I could continue to work until my planned retirement and I'm glad that I didn't have to take disability prior to retirement. I was much happier working and continuing to contribute. I encourage you to work if you can, but if not, then apply for disability.

Ty kat , I'm in the UK so health care not a problem. My COPD nurses told me last year when I was admitted to hospital that I may be better of not working but I carried on as I thought I could cope. But last year i had a scan and they found 4 nodules on my left lung for which I now have scans 6monthly and I now have a lesion on my right lung so they keeping an eye on them. I use cannabis oil besides my meds and am trying to lose weight.
I find the exhaustion is the worse thing for me.
Thanks for your advice I am going to contact my nurse and ask about classes. Xxx

I would suggest that you see a pulmonologist - not a GP - for your COPD. A Pulmonologist will be more qualified to judge the level of your disease and whether or not you can work. Many people have no choice whether to work or not, and if you are able to stay home......that is a decision your pulmonologist can help you make. Some GP's simply do not have the knowledge or experience with treating patients with copd.

Your GP may have meant that the exercise of working will help your copd, but I would rather be diagnosed by a specialist who is well versed in lung disorders.

Hate people who think they know it all