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Two week wait

Chezy41
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It's been two weeks now since referred to the breast clinic as I've got quite a big lump in my left breast, looking on my NHS app it now says should be seen within four weeks, is there anything I can do to try get seen faster or do I just have to sit and wait. Not told anyone about the lump or referral as I don't want to worry them so dealing with it all myself. 

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    Hi Chezy41,

    A very warm welcome to the forum.

    You should get your appointment within 2 weeks from the date of your referral. The actual appointment is often after this. You could try phoning your consultant's secretary to see if there are any cancellations, or ask her to add your name to the cancellation list. This sometimes works.

    This is always an anxious wait. Not all breast lumps are cancerous. Many turn out to be benign cysts, Fibroadenoma, etc. It is a fact that, of all those who attend the breast clinic, only 20% will receive a cancer diagnosis.

    I sincerely hope that all goes well and that nothing untoward is found. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Hello Chezy 41.

    Thank you for posting. I'm sorry to hear that you're waiting for an appointment to have a breast lump checked.

    Waiting for tests and appointments can be very worrying, and it's understandable if you're feeling anxious.

    It's not unusual to wait around 4 weeks for a first appointment, although this can vary depending on where you live and the waiting times at your local hospital. As Jolamine has mentioned, you could consider contacting the breast clinic to ask whether they have a cancellation list and if they could contact you if an earlier appointment becomes available, particularly if you're able to attend at short notice.

    Other than that, I'm afraid it is a matter of waiting for the appointment. I know that's probably not the answer you were hoping for.

    You mentioned that you don't want to worry your friends or family, which is understandable. However, if there is someone you trust who you can talk to, you may find it helps to share how you're feeling rather than carrying those worries on your own.

    You're also very welcome to give our nurses on the helpline a call. We're here Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, on freephone 0808 800 4040. We'd be happy to listen and talk things through with you while you're waiting.

    Take care

    Jemma

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