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Haematology referral: lymphoma

ellie2150
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Just wanting to hear if anyone has had a similar experience. 

I have always had really good health, I am 24 and live an active lifestyle with an active job. Around October 2021, I developed dry, light pink circular patches across my already pale skin. They didn't hurt and weren't itchy, but I couldn't see what was wrong. I also developed excessive sweating, during the day and at night, but it is worse during the day. Throughout November, I began to be extremely tired, I saw my GP who said I had a folate deficiency and they prescribed me with folic acid, which I didn't end up taking many of. This rash continued although I felt okay throughout December, and it continued into January. By early February, I noticed one small lymph node in my neck, and I have never seen any before so I was surprised. This came with tiredness, which has worsened. However, a month on and there was now 2 lymph nodes raised in my neck, one bigger than the other, probably around 7mm and 5mm. They are rubbery and slightly movable. I know that malignant lymph nodes are commonly larger than 10mm in size, however I have never had any lymph nodes that I have been able to feel in my neck before, and they have got bigger. Also throughout that time, I have developed extreme itching in my skin, which is my worst symptom. 

My doctor did bloods, and found that I no longer had a folate deficiency, which before was quite low, which I didn't understand. I have been referred to haematology for Monday, which was a quick turnaround of 12 days, but I am just really worried. I don't know if I am being irrational, although my GP did say that my symptoms are characteristic of lymphoma. Since my GP appointment, I've developed sharp pain under my left rib after eating, and it can feel swollen at times? 

 

I wanted to know if anyone had similar experiences - what do they do at your first referral? I feel this is really going to drag out and due to my active job I am worried this will affect it while I wait for a potential diagnosis. I would really appreciate to hear the stories of others and any advice they may have. Thank you x

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    Hello ellie2150 and a warm welcome to our forum, 

    It must be a rather anxious time for you as you are waiting for answers and your doctor mentioned your symptoms were characteristic of lymphoma. You won't know exactly though what you are dealing with until you have all your test results and are seen by the haematology specialists. Luckily you won't have long at all to wait now and I wanted to wish you the best of luck for Monday's appointment. 

    As you've developed this sharp pain under your left rib after you last saw your GP, it's something you should definitely flag when you have your appointment on Monday so don't forget to mention it to them. 

    I hope that you will hear from our members here who have had similar experiences and that they will come and share their stories with you and will tell you more about what to expect from this first referral. I am not sure whether they are investigating Hodgkin's or Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma but we have information pages on our website to help you find out more about the diagnosis process. For Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma, this page will walk you through the different steps  and for Hodgkin's Lymphoma you will also find information here on what is usually involved after you have been referred to the specialist. 

    It may take a bit of time to get a definite diagnosis especially if you have to go through various tests and wait for results. It can feel like time is dragging on and have an effect on your ability to concentrate at work or on daily tasks. The best thing to do really as you are waiting is to avoid trying to anticipate what it might be, to just take one day at a time and focus on what you need to do at home or at work, keeping busy and distracted and well away from the temptation of Dr Google which will only make you worry more. 

    There are useful tips on this page on how to cope while waiting for important news. We're keeping everything crossed for you that it all turns out to be fine!

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

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    Hi [@ellie2150]‍ - what was your diagnosis?

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