Not sure what is happening.

Hello everybody, I could use a little info as I am in the dark. Briefly, after changing pain medication for recently diagnosed osteoarthritis, I had nausea and a coughing fit bringing up bright red blood and a rattling chest. Stopped meds and phoned doc. Have had no repeat problem, but GP sent me for chest xray (6 wks ago) within 48hrs was told there was a shadow on my right lung and had to have a course of antibiotics followed by repeat xray. Had xrays Thursday and have now been told that the shadow is unchanged and I have been referred for a CT scan, chest & abdomen, which should happen in the next 2 weeks. But nobody has told me why or what they ae looking for or expecting to find. I am not looking for an online diagnosis and am a fairly strong person in dealing with things, but not knowing leads you to some very dark places, any light or even signposts would be appreciated.

I am 53 year old male, smoked a pack a day for 30 years am now an occasional smoker, go weeks without one then have a couple. Worked in petrochemical and heavy industry most of my life.

  • HI Jimbob67

    Welcome to the forum although I'm sorry to hear about the recent events that have brought you here. 

    We know that many of our members here will understand just what you've said about the not knowing. Waiting for tests and results can lead to thinking all sorts of outcomes. Just try to keep in mind that there could be any numbver of reasons for this shadow on the x-ray and that's why these additional tests have been requested so that it can be looked at more closely. 

    In a few weeks once you have those results and know more about what this shadow is - or indeed isn't - things will hopefully be easier for you. 

    If you think it might help you to talk things through with one of our team of nurses then you can call them on 0808 800 4040 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm). They may be able to give you some more information that may be of help to you. 

    Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator

  • Thanks Jenn, I have my scans 15th of this month and I will definitely update as I know more. I will deal with whatever it is or isn't but I will feel better once I know one way or another. For now I am staying positive. Once again thanks for the support.

     

    Jim

  • I am not clinically trained but I do work in respiratory department at a hospital. Your GP should have explained that he was referring you on a two week suspected cancer pathway. Don't panic! Most people that get referred in on this pathway DO NOT have cancer but they need to rule it out fast. There could be many reasons for a shadow (unresolved infection for example). You will have a CT and if you need to be followed up you will also have a consultant appointment within the two week timeframe. Hope this helps and good luck.

  • Thank you very much for your advice. I have not had a physical appointment with my GP it has all been over the phone. I will keep you all updated as I go through the process, whichever direction it takes.

    Jim

  • CT Scan today with dye of chest & abdomen. Radioligist told me shadow still there after I asked. Had to ask as my GP surgery is very poor at following up anything. I did not mention I live in Wales and have been put on the Single Cancer Pathway. DO NOT PANIC! This is true of any patient wher cancer MAY be suspected and is treated as if it is until proven otherwise. Thank you NHS. Will update with next input. I remain positive.