Urgent referral

Hiya,

wanted to message on here for some advice and your own experiences.

Twice before I have been referred to the breast clinic and on both occasions had to have large cysts drained (which although painful was a positive outcome for me). 

I was told then that I have major calcifications and hundreds of tiny cysts in both breasts, my left one being worse. I was told that makes me higher risk of eventually having breast cancer. The last time was back in March 2023.  
Two weeks ago I found more lumps in my left breast, it is painful to touch and feels like constant toothache, the pain has now spread into my upper arm, under my armpit and neck and shoulder. 
I’ve been to the GP today and she’s referred me, and has stated in the form she wants but only an urgent referral but fit me to be seen ASAP. She did Susan to me about cancer but tbh I was in shock so didn’t really take in what she said.

Has anyone else had a similar experience? This time feels different and I am a single mum with an 18 and 13 year old and don’t have the support of a partner at home. I do have a lovely boyfriend though and a really supportive family.

thanks,

Claire 

  • Hi Claire, I went in with 1 lump, then a 2nd one was picked up on mammogram, then 2 small satellite lumps on MRI, too many to do a lumpectomy and they didn't want to leave anything behind so I'm booked for a mastectomy in a couple of weeks, which sounds like the safest solution really. Hope you are ok x

  • Hiya,

    oh my goodness I hope you’re ok? What a scary time for you. Do you have plenty of support around you? X 

  • I do thank you, husband, family and friends, everyone has been fantastic. I hope you get an appointment and some answers soon x

  • Hi Cdrlbelle,

    A very warm welcome to our forum. 

    Most of us get referred under the 2 week urgent pathway, so don't let that fact add to your worries. Waiting to be seen is always a stressful time. If you were at the clinic in March 2023, it is unlikely that anything major has appeared since then. You have done the right thing by getting this checked out, and I sincerely hope that nothing untoward is found. We usually advise people to steer clear of Google at this stage. Much of the information there is aimed at the more spectacular cases, won't apply to you, won't give you any answers and will only serve to scare you further. 

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

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx