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Exhausted and struggling

Eastendgirl
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Hi, eight weeks ago I saw my G.P regarding a mass inside of my upper arm, close but not armpit area.

I had FBC referral to Orthopaedic consultant following an Ultrasound,  which I am still waiting for..

I informed the Practice a couple of weeks ago about the tingling, pins and needles sensation under my shoulder blade and down my back.. I haven't heard anything from them.  I contacted the referral department at the hospital concerned about waiting times. I was told 8 weeks at the moment..

I have a complex medical history,  including asthma and M.E the latter causing severe pain and exhaustion,  asthma is not well controlled and causes breathlessness..

My bone pain, exhaustion and breathlessness has increased over the past few weeks and I am concerned about the waiting time..especially as I realise I will have to wait for the results before an appointment with the Orthopaedic consultant is made..

Any advice or experience would be appreciated...

  • I'm sorry to hear what's happening Eastendgirl. This must be very frustrating.

    The only thing I can suggest at the moment is to let the ultrasound department know you're willing to take any cancellations that might pop up as it may increase your chances of being seen sooner if they are able to squeeze you in, and in turn speed up the process of you being seen by the orthopaedic consultant. 

    If at any point there are any sudden changes with your symptoms, then don't hesitate in contacting the NHS on 111 for further advice.

    Hopefully some of our members will share their experiences and advice with you soon, but if you'd like to get our nurses' thoughts on this, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Steph

    Many thanks for your reply and advice Steph, much appreciated.. I phoned my G.P practice before Easter and again yesterday,  to update them of my symptoms. I also contacted the referral department and was told the waiting time is now 28 weeks... due to health and mobility issues I am limited as to where I can attend.  The same problem for accepting a  cancellation or short notice appt. Non driver without family or friends who could help...I am very aware this situation is repeated across the UK , I am one of many in this situation.. my G.P practice offered me an appointment for the end of May which has been provisionally booked. The practice  [ like many] operates a 'phone at 8.30 ' for on-the-day appt subject to availability...as an M.E sufferer this option is beyond my ability so..I have to be patient.. doubly patient as I am also awaiting a CT following my Colonoscopy 17th Dec 24 again a 28 week wait...

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Steph

    Tbh...I'm trying not to overthink this situation..the fact that FBC was done at the time of consultation and the referral was made for Ultrasound and Orthopaedic consultant while I was there.. the fact that the referral is for Orthopaedic in relation to the mass.. ..my mind is 3 steps ahead .. not like me at all..unsure why this has rattled me

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