Hard area on left breast - very worried

I noticed a hard area on my left breast and am very worried.  Waiting to get an appointment for a mammogram. 

The things I've read on the internet make me think it's really really bad - sounds like it could be inflamatory breast cancer.

I don't think I can feel a defined lump - just hard areas in the left breast.  If I clench my breasts I can visually see a clear ridge in the left breast.

I don't see how it could be benign.  It's very very stressful waiting for an appointment.  Very scared.

  • Hi Phylis, Im so sorry that you have found this hard area on your breast. I won't tell you not to worry because I have been there and I know it's natural. First thing I would say is, stay away from Dr Google as that will only make you more stressed and anxious. I diagnosed myself with a rare and very serious condition a couple of weeks ago after consulting Dr Google, spent a sleepless night waiting to see the out of hours gp the next day, only for him to tell me I had a fungal infection which has cleared up with some cream! 80% of breast lumps are found to be benign. Inflammatory BC is rare and is often confused with an infection of the breast, so try not to imagine the worst case scenario. If you can, try to keep busy and distracted until your appointment. Use relaxation techniques (you can Google those!), go for walks, etc. I know it's not easy. Sending you a big hug and hope you'll reach out if you need support in the meantime. xx

  • Thank you Amy, that is such a lovely message.  

    Yes your'e right - I need to stop googling everything.  Must have spent a good two of three  hours last night doing that and drawing sometimes hopeful but then entirely negative conclusions.   

    I am feeling more positive / optimistic this morning.  Luckily my job is very busy at the moment - so there is lots to distract me!    Just need to get an appointment booked (waiting to hear back).   

    Thanks for your message.   It really cheered me up. xx

      

  • Hi Phylis, 

    Sorry to hear that. I'm in the same position. I've got a hard area in my right breast. 6 weeks ago I was told I had mastitis (not pregnant) due to the redness, pain and fever.But that subsided due to the antibiotics. Some of the hardness improved but not fully. 

    Have you noticed any other symptoms?

    Im waiting for results. Hopefully nothing serious.