Waiting for a biopsy in 3 weeks and very anxious!

I'm a 30 year old male from Ireland. I've had a sore on my jaw for about 5 months that has not healed. It is bleeding and oozing white pus all the time.

Initially I went through my Dentist who took it very seriously and referred me to the dental hospital, they took 3 weeks to tell me that as it's on my jaw I have to go to my GP.

I went to my GP and they referred me to the ENT, after a few weeks they invited me in and all they did was look at it and take an Xray.

I spoke to a junior doctor on the day (University hospital) who told me that the Xray is fine and there is no cause for concern.

They made 2 follow up appointments which were cancelled, once because of Covid and there was no reason given for the other cancellation. 

3 weeks ago I went into the ENT and the doctor there was visibly anxious and kept asking why I had not been seen earlier, he kept asking me what my main concerns were and as at this stage I did not even suspect cancer (thought the Xray meant I was fine) I said my main concern was just the cosmetic issue of it as it's always bleeding etc.

He said that it's possibly something more serious and he would like to have it removed.

Received a letter a week ago, saying I'm getting it urgently excised in 2 weeks and then they started giving me details on the biopsy they would be carrying out etc.

I've obviously now been googling like mad and now realise that I most likely have cancer (BCC at best) and am panicking and am now experiencing jaw pain, trouble opening my mouth fully and can feel that it's spreading.

Also I'm really tired all the time and something just feels off. 

Anyone here experienced something similar?

  • Hi Ronan and welcome to the forum.

    I'm sorry to read what you've been contending with and for the worry the latest ENT doctor's appraisal has caused.

    I know it's tempting to use Google when searching for answers but it only has a tendency to increase anxiety and any fears you may have so do try and stay away from it if you can.

    Hopefully some of our members who have been in a similar situation will get back to you soon but in the meantime we're thinking of you and wishing you all the best with your excision in 2 weeks time.

    We'll have our fingers crossed for a good outcome.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator 

  • Hi Ronan, when you say Jaw? Do you mean on your face or cheek? Or inside your mouth? Asking because I have the an ulcer on my gum for months now. 9/10 biopsies come back negative for cancers is a widely quoted statistic so I would not start panicking at this stage. At least you are finally getting the attention you deserve. I have had to go private to get scans and stuff. A biopsy is not being discussed yet, I had my 2nd scan Friday last, but it will probably cost £1000+ to do which is crazy! All the best buddy, pls keep us updated on how you get on.