Diagnosing lymphoma cancer.

Hi, I am just after a bit of advice and reassurance really. I started with a swollen lump on the right hand side of my neck a bit ago... I got worried as I had other symptoms like night sweats (haven't got these right now), itchy skin, fatigue. I informed my dr as I also have a terrible family history with cancer... they sent me for bloods on the 19th of may and then referred me to haematology. I think I was seen at haematology on the 24th of may, they did more bloods as he said he couldn't see my others and referred me for further testing. I went for a ct scan last week and then had an appointment for a ultrasound biopsy. I went for my ultra sound yesterday but she didn't do the biopsy. She said she can see loads of lymphnodes on the ultra sound but said she thinks it's nothing to worry about but I will need to speak to a consultant. A lady rang me today and said I have an app with my consultant Tuesday to discuss everything. I asked if they had any cancellations for today or tomorrow or Saturday as I'm worried sick I can't sleep I'm breaking down with worry thinking somethings seriously wrong. I'm only 28 and have two children so I'm really scared about the findings. The lady said I'm on a priority list and she's had to move someone else's appointment to get me in on Tuesday as it has to be a F2F app. Can anyone off me any advice, info or experience, I know you can't tell me whether I have or haven't got the dreaded c but having to wait till next week is tipping me over the edge. Thanks x

  • Hi there.

    It is perfectly understandable that you are worried about your situation. I have just finished treatment for diffuse large B cell non Hodgkin lymphoma. I didn't have any lumps in the beginning, just the night sweats, itchy skin and some kidney discomfort. I can't tell you that it will be all right, but I can say that particular cancer is very treatable. I was late to diagnosis because being a guy, I ignored the symptoms of being sick, and just took some pain killers for a few weeks. It was a blood test by my GP that highlighted my problem while looking at a potential kidney stone problem. 
    I had a pet Ct scan, but I also had a biopsy which took a while to come back, however the hospital doctors already had suggested to me what I had.
    From the mention of cancer, I started to fall apart, but was reassured very early on that it was treatable.

    Personally, I struggled to except the concept of my disease but with the help of the medical staff I overcame the initial understanding of what was wrong and how they could fix it.

    It is a very frightening journey and I won't explain my treatment, as there are 60 different types of lymphoma apparently. It is easy for me to say but Tuesday isn't too far away, so don't be consumed by fear, and have faith in your medical staff.

    I guess this'll may be little or no use or help at all, but it was difficult for me, as I didn't ask any questions because I was too frightened of the possible answers. I could feel your worry by reading your post and just wanted to at least give you one prospective. Try and be strong and stay positive, as lymphoma is very treatable. I've added a link below to what I have, but please wait for a correct diagnosis as I managed to miss lead myself in the beginning by jumping the gun.

    www.cancerresearchuk.org/.../diffuse-large-B-cell-lymphoma