Two lumps in asymmetrical breasts, 2ww

I'm 32 in a few days and found a lump in my right breast last night. I went to the Dr's this morning and they found it again, and said it was the size of a pea. To my surprise they found another larger lump the size of a walnut on my other breast. My breasts are very asymmetrical and I've always read that this was a cause for concern with breast cancer in the future. 
I didn't leave the room filled with hope as I didn't get the usual "I wouldn't worry too much" talk from the practictioner I saw.

I'm now in the two week wait cycle and already over thinking everything! Does anyone have any tips on what to do or not to do during this wait? Or has anyone had anything similar before now? I keep hoping my age is in my favour but I've quickly realised that age means very little. 

  • Hi Hayles90

    I found a lump over the weekend and saw the doctor yesterday so I understand what you're going through at the moment(I'm 35) Although my gp wasn't  overly concerned about mine and said it felt like a bleed or inflammatory. She felt both my breasts and said they both felt lumpy, but this is most likely due to the fact I'm due on my period next week. She wanted me to try inflammatory gel for 2 weeks then go back. I wasn't happy with that though and asked to be referred. She said it could be up to 6 weeks as they are snowed under as she hasn't referred me on the urgent 2 week wait. 
    The wait is probably going to feel like forever. The one thing I can say is don't Google anything. This definitely makes things worse! Try and do things to keep yourself busy. 
    My mind is in overdrive at the moment and every ache and pain I have I'm convinced are connected.

    Fingers crossed you get your appointment asap!

     

  • Hi Stars61

     

    They asked where I was in my cycle and I only finished my period on Friday so I'm assuming that's why they don't think mine might be cycle related. 
     

    I've definitely tried to not Google and only been on this page. It doesn't help my mother in law was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer just before Christmas and before this I didn't know anyone with cancer. It's just a sudden shock! 
     

    It's reassuring that they don't think it's anything serious for you so fingers crossed it's sorted for you quickly and you have the answers you need. I know what you mean about the aches and pains, my boobs are so sore from being prodded! 

  • It is a a big shock when you find a lump. This is my second. The last one I had removed ten years ago but that was a fibroadenoma. This time it's not and it feels different so my anxiety has kicked in big time! You're better than me staying off Google. I should follow my own advice! 

    Sorry to hear about your mother in law. My mother in law had a mastectomy in January and has luckily just been given the all clear. 
    I don't like to wish time away but let's hope these next few weeks fly by!

     

  • Hi [@Hayles90]‍ 

    It's a good thing that you've been given the 2 Week Wait referral, it's usually a one-stop appointment where they will do as many or as little tests as required. They are very thorough and very experienced so you'll be in the best place.

    There are lots of different ( and more importantly non-cancer ) breast conditions which cause lumps and you'll find plenty of discussions on here that have those outcomes...but although the diagnoses may differ we all have the same anxiety leading up to our appointments.

    Overthinking comes as standard when you're in this situation, it's completely understandable.

    I agree with [@Stars61]‍  - try not to consult "Dr Google" and do whatever you can to keep busy, it really does help.

    If you need to talk then this forum is a safe and supportive place , you can also  "Ask The Nurses".

    Hope all goes well for you :happy:

  • Hi [@Stars61]‍ 

    It wouldn't do any harm to book back in with your GP in 2 weeks as requested and if the lump is still there then there might be a solid case for the 2ww referral which would technically get you seen in 4 weeks rather than 6? Not sure how it'd work if you're already referred but it may bring it forward.

    GP's hands are often tied with referral criteria , especially if they know the service is snowed under so in a way it's good news if they don't suspect anything too serious...however, being snowed under isn't an excuse not to get the care that you need at the right time so do follow up on it.

    In the meantime you're absolutely right to stay off Google and keep busy to help keep the worry at bay....I see you've been through this anxiety before with the Fibroadenoma, I don't expect it gets any easier a second time.

    Hope all turns out OK this time too :happy:

     

  • Hi. Try not to worry, I know that's hard but if you let your thoughts spiral it gets really rough. 
     

    In December I found a lump in my left breast and waited 2 weeks for an appointment at the doctors. At the appointment she said she would refer me to the breast clinic however would be on a waiting list, due to my age (29) I wouldn't make priority for emergency appointment. 
    the appointment at the breast clinic was probably one of the most difficult experiences for me as I played it down and didn't try prepare myself for the what if's. It was very overwhelming having all the tests. 
    fast forward a couple of weeks I had a diagnosis and was on my way for fertility treatment. After that on 21st feb (4 days before my 30th birthday ) I had a mastectomy and all lymph nodes removed from left side. Today I had my first chemo treatment. 
    it's been a rough ride however I've powered through by trying to think of the positives, even when you feel like there isn't any. And preparing for the answers I didn't want to hear. 
     

    hopefully your appointment comes around quick and it's good news for you. 
     

    Good luck  

  • Hi [@Chelsea]‍ 

    What a rough ride indeed.

    All I can do is wish you a smoother road to recovery and keep focusing on those positives.

    Hope you're doing OK after Chemo :happy:

  • Hi [@Plumlet]‍ 

    thanks for your reply. Feeling ok so far, just a little sick and insomnia is kicking in. Hence being up at this hour lol. 
     

    hope you are doing ok. 

  • Hi @plumlet 

    Thank you for your reply. 
    I actually booked myself in at the doctors again today. My anxiety couldn't take what the doctor told about waiting etc. Anyway whilst I was sat in the waiting room a message came through for my appointment at the breast clinic! Within the 2 week wait too so I'm happy about that. The wait for that is still an anxious one but at least I have it now.

     

    Fingera crossed!

  • Hi [@Chelsea]‍ 

    Both common side effects sadly.

    Lots of tips online how to try and beat it if it continues, you really need to get as much sleep as you can to help heal.:love: