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Suspected head an neck cancer

Jayley
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Hi there .I've been recently referred to ent for a urgent 2 week referral with suspicious neck an head cancer .I'm really worried as I've got to wait until a week Friday for My appointment. I think that's too long to have to wait.almost 9 days  .I've had a hoarse voice for months .a sore throat difficulty swallowing. Night sweats .a cough .I'm a current smoker and also suffer chest pain/tightness and taking esomeprazole for it.im worried sick .my voice is almost gone. Getting worse and like something is stuck in my throat ..feel very tired all the time too.

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    Hi Jayley

    Getting an appointment in 9 days is fairly quick, they have obviously made you a priority. The NHS is under huge pressure for numbers of patients to be treated.

    It is a very frightening time waiting for your first appointment, followed by the wait for scans and tests, then waiting for the results. Then a further wait for treatment to start.

    Once you are in the system you will find all the staff amazing at getting you towards recovery, mention to them your symptoms and they will try to alleviate them as best they can.

    If you want to give up smoking, I know very much easier said than done, they can also help you with that. Probably the biggest single effort you can make to help yourself. Especially if there is surgery planned in future.

    Wishing you the best

    Ed

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I’m sorry to read about your situation. It sounds like you have been dealing with a lot and waiting for answers to find out what the matter can be incredibly hard.

    The 2- week wait 'suspected cancer' pathway referral is only guidance for the recommended time frame someone should have initial contact with a specialist at the hospital with concerning symptoms. Some people are seen anytime within the 2-week window whereas others unfortunately are waiting much longer.

    Fortunately, your appointment is quite soon. But I appreciate waiting any length of time when you are worried is stressful.

    As I am sure you are aware the NHS is under a lot of pressures at the moment due to long waiting lists and staff shortages but they are working hard to try and see everyone as quickly and as efficiently as they can.

    In the meantime, if you feel that your symptoms are getting worse do let your doctor know. Try and take pain relief to ease the discomfort you are in but if this isn't helping ask the doctor if they can prescribe something stronger.

    I hope you know more about your situation soon. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene

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