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So scared I have pancreatic cancer, ultrasound lady wouldn't tell me results. I'm so consumed in my thoughts and stressed

Cryx
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Hi, I just wondered if anyone could shed some light if they have had similar symptoms, im 37 female i don't smoke but do drink ive had what I believe to be ibs for years, mostly that I get runny poop very often and lower abdominal cramping for which ive had scans for on ovaries and cervix both clear. Recently ive been getting minor niggly pains all over my upper and mid abdomen and all of a sudden ive had what I can only describe as extreme tenderness all round both the side of my ribs, below my ribs my back both flanks and abdomen this has been going on about 5 days. I had it when i was originally referred but it eased for a while I had an abdominal ultrasound and the lady was so cold I asked if she had found something as she suddenly started concentrating on a certain area for ages in the mid abdomen, she told me she couldn't discuss results with me. I got so upset because I knew there and then shed found something and she asked why I was crying and I told her it's because I know she had found something, she replied I'm not allowed to discuss results I just take photos. But ive had 3 ultra sounds and 2 trays in the past and they've always told me there and then that it's clear. I can't eat I can't sleep I'm crying I'm a mess, I have a 12 year old I'm gutted. I'm not sure what I'm asking but I'm just so anxious it's completey consumed me i just wondered if anyone had experience anything like this or these kind of symptoms, thanks for taking the time to read.

  • Hello Cryx

    I'm sorry to hear that you've had some ongoing health problems and that you're now waiting for the results of an ultrasound. It's understandable that you're feeling anxious. 

    Who is allowed to give you information or results when you're having an ultrasound depends on the health professional who is carrying out the scan. I know from the many posts that I've read here over the years that lots of people aren't given their results at the time of the appointment and very often once the results are returned to their GP there is nothing to give the doctor an immediate cause for concern. 

    We know that for many people this period of waiting and uncertainty can be difficult. If you'd like to talk things through with one of our team of nurses I know they would be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    I hope that you don't have to wait too long for answers Cryx. Do let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Hi, thanks for taking the time to reply to me, I am still anxiously awaiting my results. Again thank your reply 

  • Offline

    Hi, I'm sorry you're going through the anxiety and worry of not knowing. I just want to tell you that I've been in your shoes many times, I've had scans on my abdomen, liver and a mammogram and each time, the radiologist refused to tell me anything but all my scans were fin! My liver scan in particular was so scary because she suddenly stopped and stared at the screen, then proceeded to press hard on my right side for about a minute. My heart nearly stopped and I kept asking her to tell me if something was wrong but she kept saying the consultant will discuss the results with you! It was borderline cruel but they are also just doing their job, I just wish they could show some empathy as well. In the end my scan was perfectly fine! 

    Please try not to worry much, do something relaxing, watch a funny film with your child, go for a walk and if you are into visualization, try to visualise receiving a call from the consultant informing you that all is well and there's nothing to worry about xx

  • Offline in reply to Lilyjane

    Hi lilyjane, it's the worse isn't it awaiting results, that sounds like a terrible experience for you regarding your liver scan, im glad it came back clear for you though. it would help if,  the ultrasound tech can't discuss it due to being unqualified or another reason that they maybe should give you a heads up before the scan as there are alot of techs that will tell you! And this must give so many people such terrible thoughts and anxiety if they've been told previously there and then. Thank you for your reassurance and thank you so much for taking time to read and reply to my worry x

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