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Scared and waiting - been referred to dermatology to check some moles, but I can't stop thinking about it

BecIC
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I have always had moles some quite large, however in the last 6 months I have noticed changes to a couple of my existing moles and 2 new moles have appeared and seem to be growing. I went to the doctors yesterday and they have put in for an urgent dermatology referral, but it will be 2 -4 week (I have been told) for an appointment. 

All my family are staying its nothing and not to worry about it, but I am worried. I spend most of my days thinking about it and scanning my body and taking pictures of the moles I can (some are on my back) to see if there have been any changes. 

Ive not been diagnosed with anything and at the very start of getting to find out if it is or isn't anything to be worried about. 

I just don't know how to stop thinking about it and to get on with my job.

  • Welcome to Cancer Chat, BecIC,
    I’m sorry to hear about the worry you're feeling right now.
    It sounds like you're doing everything you can to monitor the situation though, but I can imagine how hard it must be to focus on anything else while you wait. Many members here have been through similar experiences, and I'm sure they'll offer support and share how they managed the anxiety during the waiting period.
    While I can’t offer medical advice, if you’d like to speak to someone with a medical background while you wait, our team of nurses is here to help. You can reach them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    Once you know more, please feel free to come back and share an update when you can.
    All the best,
    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator
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    Hi. I've had 3 moles removed in the las few years, one was melanoma in situ, one had abnormal cells that hadn't spread and I'm waiting for the results for the latest one. The one reassuring thing they told me was that if they're caught early, they're more likely to get all of the cancer if it's present. Unfortunately it's not guaranteed 100% but as long as you keep an eye on your moles and take photos regularly every few months , then you'll spot any changes. When I said the latest one on my leg looked dodgy, they got me in in 6 weeks for removal. The changes happened so slowly with mine I didn't go to see the doctor straight away as I wasn't sure if it actually had changed. 

    It's really hard not to worry and the waiting is the worst part, but you've come to the right place for support and advice. I hope your results are good and everything is ok. 

    All the best. x

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