Symptoms

I'm female late 50s. I've experienced bladder issues for around 4 years. This progressed to right groin and lower back pain. I've had this for 2 years. My GP referred me to the hospital after experiencing bowel issues - this appointment was last month and the doctor organised a CT scan of my abdomen with contrast. The scan was done 2 weeks ago.My urology appointment was messed up so I only saw them last week. 

Urology say urinalysis showed traces of blood so I'm waiting on a cystoscopy.

I received a letter from the first appointment regarding the CT scan. It ignored my symptoms detailed above, said everything ok and the CT incidentally found a 18mm fibroid.

I didn't think CT scans can differentiate between tumours and fibroids. Am I wrong? It's due to my symptoms that I want to make sure it's a correct diagnosis. Should I ask for an ultrasound or MRI? The Dr who arranged the CT has discharged me.

  • I was diagnosed with non alcoholic fatty liver disease last year, using ultrasound. No follow up required, just dietary advice. I'm not overweight so that was a bit of a surprise.

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I’m sorry to read about what has been happening and can appreciate that unexplained symptoms can prey on your mind. 

    CT scans are very useful for getting a look inside the body and they sometimes can identify fibroids. But they are not the main scan for a fibroid diagnosis with an ultrasound or MRI scan being the preferred choice.

    You can ask your GP if you need to have further scans Usually, the hospital would write to your GP explaining their findings and if anything, else needs to be done.

    In the meantime, If your symptoms persist, all we can really advise you to do is to go back and discuss them again with your doctor. They may consider doing further tests over time if this is needed. It's often a process of elimination to find out the cause of someone's symptoms. 

    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