Breast Clinic Referral - Panicking!!

Offline ashay19286 over 2 years ago

Hello all,

I went to the docs Tuesday with tender and quite sore breasts for a good few weeks with no improvement. I'm 25, had a child (just a bit of background info). I was sure I felt a lump under my armpit, however the doc didn't feel the lump and said she didn't see or feel anything concerning but she referred me as she wasn't too sure.

Now I'm worried and freaking out on why she wasn't sure! I suffer with health anxiety and haven't stopped worrying! I have found myself now examining my breast and noticing a small diffence in size with both my nipples and now I'm thinking is this another symptom or have they always been like that?

Any advice would be really appreciated or someone who has gone though a similar experience.. please feel free to share.

Offline Jolamine over 2 years ago

Hi Ashay,
A very warm welcome to our forum.
Can I ask what age your child is? Our breasts change a lot during pregnancy, so hopefully this is all that this is. Your GP has done the right thing by referring you, just to make certain. The breast clinic has access to all the latest scanning equipment and can carry out a biopsy there and then, if this is needed. No doctor can be sure, until they see an ultrasound scan, which will show up a lump if there is one there. A biopsy tests for any cancer cells and can tell you whether the lump is cancer, or something less serious.
Of all the people who attend the breast clinic, only 2 people out of every 10 will get a cancer diagnosis. Not all lumps are cancerous. Many turn out to be benign cysts or fibroadenoma. It is also the case that the majority of people who get breast cancer are over 50. Another hopeful sign for you, is that breast cancer is not usually accompanied by pain.
Our breasts and nipples are seldom even in size or shape. It is possible that you have only noticed the difference in size, because you are constantly examining them. This can also make your breasts more tender, so do your best not to prod and poke too much.
I have been through the breast clinic a number of times. I have had 2 bouts of breast cancer, but also a number of benign lumps. My last surgery was 13 years ago and I still lead a busy and fulfilling life.
Try to keep yourself preoccupied whilst you are waiting. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.
Here's hoping that all turns out well for you.
Kind regards,
Jolamine xx
Cancel
Join to reply Sign in to reply

Cancel
Offline bella_d over 2 years ago

Hi Ashay,
Having just been in your shoes (I had an apt at the breast clinic yesterday), try not to worry too much - although much easier, said than done, I know!
I felt a lump and was referred - I had felt it for a while but put it down to breastfeeding. The doctors will tell you what they think after an examination and then you will be told findings of an ultrasound straight away and any next steps.
The lump I had found turned out to be nothing but I had to have a biopsy as my ultrasound showed some presentation in the side of my boob that needs further testing to rule out pre-cancerous changes.
Although I'm still worried I do feel somewhat reassured after yesterday - if it is anything at least it's been found early and I'm on the right track now. I also had a call from the surgeon I had seen when I got home to check I was feeling ok and told me not to worry - very kind.

You've done the right thing getting checked and are in good hands. Try to stay positive as the likelihood is all will be fine. It's made me realise how important it is to be breast aware!
Cancel
Join to reply Sign in to reply

Cancel

All Categories

Breast Clinic Referral - Panicking!!

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us