Lymphoma - worried about my symptoms but feel like no-one is listening. What do I do?

Hi. Hoping someone is here to help or offer advice. 

I have 2 lumps on my neck, the left side. One is ever so slightly above the collarbone and the other is on top of it. They’re firm. One is about the size of a 5 pence coin and the other is about the size of a 20 pence coin. I discovered them accidentally, never thought anything of it. But I have been suffering with really bad itchy skin, especially my legs at night, along with fever like symptoms that come in waves and night sweats. Fatigue has been the bane of my life, I can barely function. As well as pain in my left armpit and left breast - which has got the most horrid ache 24/7 and changed in size massively. I spoke to a close friend who was diagnosed with lymphoma years ago, and she urged me to get check. I saw the GP and they couldn’t find my lumps, despite me pointing them out. They insisted it would be nothing, and just ignore it. I asked and insisted for an ultrasound. Had the scan, and they didn’t even scan over where I explained the lump was. Been told “normal, no action” and I feel like I’m going crazy, like talking to a brick wall. My gut is telling me something is wrong. 

Do I just ignore these symptoms like suggested? Or do I try stand my ground and insist my symptoms are looked into and explain Id like an answer as to why I have the lumps. 

  • Hi Alltoo_well99, 

    You did the right thing getting checked and I can understand why you feel like you are going crazy, that you are sure you can feel something there that is unusual but feel your concerns are not being taken seriously. It is reassuring though that your scan results have come back normal but if you are still not reassured I would suggest you get a second opinion - it's best not to ignore symptoms especially if you still haven't got peace of mind so it would not hurt perhaps just to get another opinion so that you can hopefully get confirmation that it is indeed nothing of concern. You could also insist that you do feel these lumps and that you would like to know what they are. 

    I hope that you will hear from other members of our community who have been in a similar place before and that they will be along shortly to share their experience with you. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator