Breast Cancer Referral

Hi,

My underarm began swelling on my left side, over a month ago and have had shooting pains in the left breast on and off. I thought it was in my head and thought nothing of it. Then before Christmas it started to get a bit tender, where the swelling is and thought it was time to get it checked out. I spoke to my GP yesterday, they examined me and have referred me for a 2 week wait. 
 

I know it was only yesterday, but how long should I wait for the appointment to come through,  a week? the full 2 weeks?

What can I expect for the first appointment, will it take a few hours? Would I need the full day off work?

I'm soo worried about my family and what happens if I can't help to support them, as a mum and a wife. I know I am jumping to conclusions and it is most likely nothing, more a precaution, but I just don't know how I am going to keep distracted until I've been seen. 

Parents
  • Hi CMix,

    So sorry you're going through this it can be a worrying time can't it!  I've had not exact but semi similar symptoms to yourself I went to my doctors last Tuesday who examined me and put me on the 2 week wait list 2 days later I had a call offering me an appointment for Monday (yesterday).  I went had another physical examine after again explaining my symptoms etc I had a mammogram, ultrasound and a breast core biopsy (tissue aspiration) of the lump in my left armpit.  Now awaiting my results which should be next Tuesday.  That's my experience anyway but you may have different tests done to myself I guess it depends on what they think needs to be looked at.  I really do hope you'll be ok though and wish you all the best whatever your outcome is too.  Everyone who has replied to me on here has been so nice and reassuring.  Just do yourself a favour and stay off dr Google!  The main thing is you've taken first step by seeing your gp the rest the will come and cross each bridge as or if and when you get to it.

    All the best

    X

  • Hi Mumoftwo35

    sorry that you are going through this as well, I hope things will be ok for you too. If you don't mind me asking, did they give you any initial results from the scans? Or will they wait for the biopsy to give you the full results? How long did the appointment take? Reassuring that you got your appointment within a week. Hopefully I won't have too long a wait. Yes, Dr Google is dangerous but can't help it at times. 
     

    please let me know how to get on and wish you all the best

     

    x

  • Hi Mumoftwo35,

    Just wanted to say, I really hope you get good news today. 

    x

  • Hi Cmix

    Really hope you're ok? Thank you so much keeping fingers crossed and focusing on my little boys birthday today, I will let you know when I hear anything.

    X

  • Mum of two 

    happy birthday to your son 

    hope all goes well for you at your appointment 

    love Lara ️

  • Hello to you all

    Thank you Lara for the birthday wishes to my son.

    The breast clinic have called and I have do not have breast cancer, I have fibroadenomas completely harmless so very much relieved.

    X

  • Heyy mum of two 

    that's the best news I'm so happy for you best day ever for you go have a wonderful day with your son best birthday present ever ️

  • That has brought a smile to my face...amazing news !!! So relieved and happy for you. I hope you and your son enjoy the rest of the day

    x

  •  

    Hi Mumoftwo,

    This news has really made my day. I'm delighted for you!

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

     

  • Well what a day, honestly happy son and a happy mummy too. Thank you all so much everyone's support lately has been so very much appreciated many happy tears today!

    X

  • Hi CMix,

    I am so glad to hear that you now have your breast clinic appointment through and that it's fairly soon. You will find that the staff at these clinics are normally very understanding and helpful. You will have a chat with your consultant about your symptoms, then an examination of your breasts. After that you may have a  mammogram (if over 40), an ultrasound and possibly a biopsy. Not all clinics give the scan results straight away, as you usually have to wait another 1-2 weeks for the result of your biopsy. The biopsy determines whether or not any lumps found are cancerous. 


    Not all lumps are cancerous. Some people have naturally lumpy breasts, whilst others have fibroadenoma or cysts. It is a fact that only 2 people out of every 10 will get a cancer diagnosis, so here's hoping that you'll be one of the lucky ones!

    Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Thank you so much it really has been a great day. Please let me know how you get on with your appointment this Friday I will be thinking of you and keeping everything crossed for you

    X

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