Hi,

sorry to hear you're in pain. You've definitely done the right thing to get it checked out.

when I went to breast clinic I had an examination & was then sent for a mammogram  and ultrasound. Both were painless. I was then given a biopsy where (numbed up) they took a little sample under my skin. I then went back to the consultant for a chat. It was at this time I asked if it was likely to be cancer & I was told yes. I felt better knowing then rather than waiting two weeks for my results. I was there most of the morning.

It wasn't as bad as id imagined even though I didn't have the best news.

keep positive, try not to worry until you get all the facts as there could be lots of different reasons for your pain that isn't cancer.

wishing you all the very best of luck

Hi, thanks so much for your response! Well I'm 100% sure it's not breast cancer, I'm only 18. My doctor couldn't actually feel any lumps or anything she could just notice an area of my chest wall was more prominent, I'm worried the clinic is going to dismiss me when I'm there in person due to the swelling not being on my breast, I'm not sure they'd even think anything of it, but if my doctor refered me she obviously wants it checking out

Adding on to my previous response, as im only 18 I've heard mammograms aren't very accurate in younger women however as I've said the firm feeling isn't even in my breast it's under my right clavicle towards right auxiliary so if they was to do an ultrasound it wouldn't need to be of my breast it would need to be in that area? But im not sure if that area relates to breast cancer. To be honest im not worried about any type of cancer it's just wondering why the swelling is there

Hello and thanks for your post,

It is good to hear that you have got an appointment so soon. Because of your age they will probably do an ultrasound and a breast examination.

An ultrasound is the usual test in women under the age of 35. This is bcause women have denser breasts which means a mammogram is not as effective as an ultrasound.

The ultrasound uses high-frequency waves to produce an image of the inside of your breasts, showing any lumps or abnormalities

There is sometimes a bit of hanging around inbetween seeing the breast care nurse and the doctor so do bring a magazine. 

GP's often send women to breast clinics not always because they suspect cancer but because they want to find the cause of a particular lump or in your case the change in shape around your breast. Breast cancer is rare in someone of your age but hopefully with the help of the ultrasound they will be able to tell you more.

It has been helpful hearing from other members of the forum with all their helpful comments.

If you would like to chat through any of this with one of the nurses on the helpline then you are welcome to give us a ring. Our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are here Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.

All the Best,

Catherine