Two week referral for swallowing problems

For the last few weeks I have had mild discomfort when eating. It feels like I have a lump in my throat and I get a burning in my throat when I bend over.

Been referred on the two week cancer pathway. I suffer with health anxiety so this is making me really scared and worried

  • Hi Ceazyanimallover and thank you for your post.

    I am sorry to learn that you are having symptoms that are causing you concern.

    NHS England has introduced a new target called the Faster Diagnosis Standard (FDS). The target is that you should not wait more than 28 days from referral to find out whether you have cancer or not.

    Most patients referred under the Faster Diagnosis Standard system do not have cancer but may have another condition requiring hospital diagnosis and treatment.

    We know it can be stressful waiting for appointments and results.

    You may find Anxiety UK and Every Mind Matters are helpful websites with useful tips and advice on how to cope in these situations.  

    I really hope you know more soon and that everything will be okay for you.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful 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.

    Kind regards

    Tina