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Early Stage of the process

Deb01
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Hi all

I found a lump in my left breast on Saturday just gone after noticing that my breast had changed shape compared to my right. I noticed a indentation under my breast and my nipple was facing downward slightly. 
I have also been suffering neck and shoulder pain for the past 3 months which hasn't got better with treatment. 
I filled in the online questionnaire on 111 and a doctor called me back a few hours later. 
I told the doctor what I found, didn't mention the neck and shoulder pain as I didn't think it would be related. 
the doctor said that she would send a email to my GP advising a referral to the breast clinic as an emergency, but I was to call my GP this morning, which I did. 
Appointment with my GP today to say yes I have a lump, and abnormal shaping of my breast comparable to my other. 
GP has referred me to the breast clinic  

I didn't mention the neck and shoulder pain again as I forgot, but after reading up I have found it could be related so I will mention it at the clinic. 
I had a call a few hours later to ask which hospital I would like to go to, and it was explained that I should get an appointment within 2 weeks, but it could be longer due to COVID. I really hope not! 
Not sure how I feel at the minute, I want to stay positive, need to stay positive but deep down I'm petrified. 
Guess I'm writing this in the hope of some advice and wise words.  

  • Hi Deb and welcome to the forum.

    We have many members who have been through this process so I'm sure some of them will offer their support and advice to you soon but whilst you wait I hope this information I've found on what to expect at your breast clinic appointment will help you prepare for your appointment.

    I hope you're not waiting too long and all goes well when the time comes.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator 

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    Hi Deb,

    I am sorry to hear about your symptoms, but glad to hear that you have been referred to the breast clinic. Although your appointment could be longer due to Covid, not many people are finding this. Most are still being seen within the 2 week time frame.

    You will be petrified at the moment, as there are so many unknowns. Regardless of the outcome, you will feel better once you have your results and have a plan to move forward. Hang on to your positivity too, if you can - not easy I know, but this will help you through all that you have to get through.

    Make sure that you mention your nec and shoulder pain when you attend the clinic, as this could be related. Please try to steer clear of Dr Google. Much of his information is poorly researched, out of date and aimed at the spectacular and, will scare you even more.

    Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Offline in reply to Jolamine

    Hi Jolamine

     

    firstly can I say what a lovely name you have secondly thank you so much for taking the time to send me those lovely words of encouragement and support, it really means a lot. 
    I have now received my appointment at the breast clinic for next Friday at the moment I am trying so hard to stay positive and keep myself focused and busy, but I have my moments... usually when I'm in bed, when my husband is asleep next to me, that's when my mind starts racing and every scenario goes through my head!! 
    But it's the weekend, the weather is beautiful my son is coming home on leave and my husband is taking me away for the night tomorrow for a bit of us time!! 
    I will keep you all posted as to how I get on in the journey in the hope that I can at least help one other person who is maybe starting this roller coaster we all find ourselves on. 
     

    Happy weekend

    Debbie x 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Steph

    Hi Steph

     

    Thank you for your message, I now have an appointment for next Friday, just taking it one day at a time x 

     

    Thanks 

    Debbie x

  • Offline in reply to Deb01

    Hi Debbie, I've got different symptoms but not much further along in the process than you are. I'm waiting for a neck ultrasound after a telephone appointment with ent. 

    Like you I tend to forgot to mention symptoms or dismiss them as nothing. My advice, having seen a fair few doctors recently, is write everything down, almost a symptom diary if you like. When you know you've got an appointment you can go through the list and write questions down. There's no shame in it, there is an awful lot of information to take in. The last few appointments I've had, I've walked away wishing I had asked the doctor X or Y, which isn't a nice feeling at all and the anxiety starts again (in my case anyway) 

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