Itchy dry red nipple? Appt next week, struggling to cope

Hi, I am 22 years old. I'm currently having issues mainly with my areola. It's been itchy and red looking for some time with dry skin, and itchy feeling? I am so so worried, my mam passed away with triple negative breast cancer 5 years ago and I've got major health anxiety since then. I've looked on google so much, I really know I shouldn't but couldn't help it and I'm adamant I've got IBC or Pagets. I really can't deal with these symptoms and im due to be seen at breast clinic next Monday, I can't eat/sleep or enjoy normal life anymore as im that scared. I feel like I've got no one to speak too about it as everyone thinks im over reacting. I've got a 3 year old little girl and just the thought of her makes me cry thinking the worst. Has anyone experienced the same symptoms and it had all been ok? 
I don't want to sound over reacting but I really can't cope with all this x 

  • Hello Becca and welcome to the forum.

    I'm sorry for the worry and stress waiting for your breast clinic appointment is causing and that your health anxiety is making this more challenging. I hope some of the self-help tips given on the NHS website will help keep your nerves and mind at bay until next week but if you feel you really can't wait until then, you could try getting in touch with the breast clinic to see if you're able to take any last minute cancellations that may have popped up.

    Many of our members know how difficult this time can be so I hope you receive some support and advice from them soon but in the meantime, we're all thinking of you Becca and will have our fingers crossed for good news.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator