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ENT Referral

Rsims1994
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Hi guys,

Today I had an appointment to get a lump on the right side of the neck checked, just under my jaw. The doctor told me she wasn't too worried as it could be a number of things (I had COVID a month ago) but she was going to refer me to the ENT to get it checked. 
 

I had bloods taken and went home. About 6 hours later I received a phone call from my doctors receptionist saying the doctor wanted to talk to me in regards to my ENT referal. I panicked and asked if my bloods had an issue but they told me everything looked "normal."

How would the receptionist know everything was okay? Do they have access to results? And any idea what on earth the doctor needs to talk about? 
I've had an appointment booked for Wednesday, they told me it can't be urgent or the doctor would want to talk to me sooner than 5 days later, but I can't help but worry. 
 

Has anyone had this happen before? Also, any info on what to expect at an ENT appointment would be really appreciated. 

  • Hi there

    It is often a worry having a new symptom that you don't know the cause of but try not to let your mind run away with you for now.

    As your doctor has already said there can be a number of reasons for lumps and most will be due to a current or recent infection but often it is reasonable to get them checked out just to be on the safe side.

    The receptionists at the GP surgery often can view blood test results on patients notes and can pass on normal results if seen and directed by the GP. Anything more concerning would usually be discussed directly by the doctor.

    I'm afraid no one here will be able to say what the doctor wishes to talk to you about on Wednesday but as has already been said you would assume if it was something of greater concern they would be speaking to you much sooner.

    At the ENT appointment the doctor is likely to take a history from you about the lump, examine the lump and the area around it. If needed they may ultrasound the lump and take a biopsy if necessary to be looked at under a microscope.

    I hope everything is okay for you and you know more very soon.

    Take care

    Naomi

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