Please help, I’m suspecting I have lymphoma

I'm in my mid 20s, I've had eczema my whole life which flared up badly 2 years ago. I treated it quite well and it got better but since November I've had on and off rashes that have worsened now and itch like mad; especially at night. The rashes are scaly and dry and when I moisturise they don't really change much. 
The itching is intense, it feels like fire. I have these rashes between my legs (groin), neck,  on my torso and back. 
After researching my symptoms online I noticed my rashes look very similar to those of T cell lymphoma.

I can't delay this and want to get this ruled out. How can I see a consultant dermatologist about this on the nhs. Should I make a gp appointment and then ask for a referral? It takes ages to get an appointment in my surgery and i was thinking about seeing a go privately and asking them to refer me to an nhs consultant if possible. Does anyone have experience of doing this?


I would be really grateful if someone could advise me on the quickest way to get this checked out. I'm worried sick about this getting worse.  

 

  • Hi Bisquit70 and thanks for posting.

    It sounds like you are having a worrying time at the moment.

    To see a dermatologist through the NHS you would need a referral through your GP, you are right about that.  It's frustrating when it is difficult to get an appointment quickly, we are hearing this from a lot of people.  Please do keep trying to get through, and if you are unable to, you could try going to the surgery to speak to someone.  

    You could also speak to the practice manager to let them know how difficult you are finding it to see your GP.

    You are able to see a dermatologist privately, but this may not be much quicker than waiting to see a NHS dermatologist.  We are not able to recommend private providers, but there is a website you can use to find a private GP in your area.  You can find it here.

    Although you are very worried about your symptoms, it may be helpful to remember that most people who are seen with these kind of worries turn out not to have cancer.

    Please do get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You might like to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Rachel