Can I get assessed sooner?

I’ve had an abrasion and lumps in my inner lower jaw since the beginning of March. I had antibiotics which took away an infection but still have the painful abrasion and lumps.

I spoke to the GP on Thursday early afternoon who has referred me to the doctor-dentist specialist to see if it’s cancer. I was told they would contact me within two weeks. By mid afternoon I had a lump in my throat and the tip of my tongue was numb. Today I noticed my upper right outside gum is numb, and my gums are going white. I think my tongue is getting more numb. My lips are going numb and so is the rest of my gums.

I’ve been shocked at the speed of the change of symptoms. Is there any way I can be seen before two weeks?

  • Hi Anonymous1234567890 and welcome to the forum.

    I'm sorry to hear about your situation and for the worry your symptoms are causing.

    I noticed you made your post in our nurses section of the forum so I just wanted to let you know that as it's the bank holiday weekend they won't be replying to any posts until they return on Tuesday, so if you are concerned about any changes you've noticed and are hoping for some medical advice, it would be best to get in touch with the NHS on 111. They will be able to answer your questions and let you know if you need to see someone more quickly. 

    I hope this helps and you're able to get some much needed answers and reassurance over these latest developments soon.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi there and thanks for your post

    I am sorry to hear about your situation and appreciate what a concerning time this must be for you. I hope you took Steph's advice and called NHS111 over the weekend for advice.

    When symptoms are changing it is always best to speak to a doctor about it so they can assess you and decide the next course of action.

    The suspected cancer pathway is the quickest way for people to be seen and often this is within 2 weeks. Most people on this pathway won't notice a sudden change in symptoms which is why it is usually safe to wait to be seen. In the rare case of an emergency patients can be assessed and admitted sooner to hospital if necessary.

    I hope you know more soon.

    All the best

    Naomi