Am i worrying for no reason?

I’m a bit concerned because I’m not really sure what happened in my haemotology appointment this morning. I saw the GP last week who referred me to haematology. I have lots of hard swollen lumps in my groin and neck, the largest are the size of grapes, that have been there for about a year. I have lots of other symptoms too such as fatigue, a persistent cough, abdominal pain and weight loss. Hence I had an urgent referral.

The first thing this consultant said today was that the lumps were normal and everyone has them, you could only notice mine so much because I’m skinny. I’m a healthy bodyweight, not underweight, and a year ago had no lumps at all, so I’m not sure how this can be ‘normal’. They are large enough know that they are visable without touching them.

He also said that my bloods came back fine, my neutrophil count was low but again that’s completely ‘normal’. I know I shouldn't look on google but I though low neutrophils was a sign of an infection.

He then went on to say the only way to confirm Lymphoma is with a biopsy, but then said he didn’t want to do that for me as apart from being tired there seems to be nothing wrong with me. He instead ordered more bloods (I’d only had them done a few days ago) and an ultrasound, but said it wasn’t an urgent one so may take 8-10 weeks.

I know he’s the expert, but I don’t understand how my GP can be so concerned about these lumps and then the consultant dismissed them completely. He actually said I can’t believe the GP referred you when they know how busy we are.

I’m completely torn now. Part of me feels like an idiot for even going to the GP in the first place and wasting everyone’s time, but I’m also concerned that this isn’t being investigated properly. I rung my GP to get an appointment to see if something else could be causing the abnormal bloods and tiredness but they said they can’t do anything until the consultant has finished with me.

  • Hello squid101

    I'm sorry to hear that you're dealing with some ongoing health concerns at the moment. It's good to know that your initial blood tests from the GP didn't raise any issues and that the Consultant isn't immediately concerned about things. 

    Whilst it sounds as if his bedside manner could have perhaps been a little better, it's good to know that he is requesting further blood tests and scans. Hopefully, you won't have to wait too long and the results will give you some reassurance about things. 

    If after your next appointment you're not satisfied with what the Consultant tells you then you could consider seeking a second opinion. But for now, try to remain positive and attend your next few appointments. 

    Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator