Routine 1 year breast screening coming up, and worried I may have found another cyst. I hate this fear and anxiety I feel every year.

Hello I've just had a letter for my routine breast screening appointment in 5 weeks time.  I do check my breasts because of my family history.  I had a health scare last year and was told I had multiple breast cysts and they drained the lump I was concerned about at the time.  Last night i thought right side felt more lumpy and panicked.  I think its possible cyst I'm so scared now to go back to the gp.  Surely breast cancer can't grow within a year? I had a dignostic mammogram and ultrasound of both breasts last year.  I hate this fear I feel every year.  I'm seeing the gp this morning and I'm certain I get reffered again to the breast clinic.  This happens every time because of my family history but it causes me so much anxiety  Any advice or guidance or even kind words would be much appreciated. Many thanks 

  • Hello Bear3 and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear about your family history and I can only imagine how anxious it must make you feel.

    I know it is horrible being checked regularly at the breast clinic but at least you come away knowing that breast doctors have thoroughly checked your breasts and hopefully they will have again ruled out cancer.

    I would also discuss how anxious this is making you feel with your doctor.

    I am not sure whether some massage or reflexology or even some one to one counselling could help. It is learning how to cope with this hanging over you which I can understand must be very hard.

    You are very welcome to ring and chat this through with one of the helpline nurses.

    The number to ring is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine