Breast pain - waiting for appointment at cancer unit but the pain is now unbearable. Does anyone have any suggestions on what can help?

On Boxing Day, my nipple started really hurting, then a lump formed under my areola. I went doctors on the 29th, he referred me to the cancer unit (which I now have an appointment for the 16th of January) however since then, the pain in now unbearable, I have a pinkish rash around my areola and then a rash that appears to follow a vein up to my armpit, which is now also hurting. Not pregnant or breast feeding and no fever. I honestly don’t think I can cope with this pain for another 2 weeks! Any suggestions on what can help or what this even could be? I’m going out of my mind! TIA 

  • Hi LeanneJT, 

    Poor you that sounds really painful! You did the right thing in going to the doctors' on the 29th when your nipple started hurting and you noticed that lump. It's good they were thorough and have referred you to the cancer unit and it won't be too long now until the appointment and I hope that you will get some answers. It does sound though like you should perhaps get in touch with your GP again and mention that you have been referred and have an appointment to be seen but that in the meantime the pain has become unbearable and you have rash. I think it's important that you are checked again as it sounds like the pain is really intense. Don't hesitate to ring your doctor's surgery first thing tomorrow and explain the situation to them or if you feel it cannot wait until tomorrow there is also the option of ringing 111 for out of hours advice. 

    I can imagine this pain is making you so uncomfortable and I hope that you will be seen quickly and that you feel better very soon. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator