Hello Eli

I'm sorry to hear that you've been dealing with a number of ongoing health concerns and that you're now waiting on an appointment to see a specialist in the new year. It's understandable that you may be feeling worried about what will happen at the appointment. 

I imagine that the specialist will talk to you about your symptoms and health in general and want to review any tests that you've had to date. They may want to request some further tests or investigations and those may or may not happen at the appointment depending on what the Consultant requests. 

It may be that the Consultant is in a position to give you an idea about what is responsible for your symptoms based on all the information they have to have and their clinical expertise but this isn't always the case. 

I realise that my answers have been a bit non-committal and I'm sorry that I've not been able to give you any firmer information. I wonder if you might find it helpful to have a chat with one of our team of nurses ahead of your appointment. If you would like to speak to them they're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

I hope that your appointment brings some answers and reassurance. Do let us know how you get on. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator 

Hi Jenn, 

Thank you for reassuring my concerns and anxieties! I've tried to not delve into the dark hole of googling symptoms and the like, but I already knew enough about blood cancer symptoms to have an incling they might investiage it, so I've been pretty anxious these past weeks!

Thank you for going through the possible steps that might be taken at a first appointment. I completley understand that it's hard to tell anyone what they might expect, because it will vary from case to case, person to person, and consultant to consultant! So all of the information you've given is really helpful, and very much appreciated. Having an idea of what could happen has already alleviated some of the anxiety, and I can start preparing myself for it better now!

I have felt hesitant to access cancer-specific resources, as I don't have a diagnosis yet (and of course, may not get one at all), but closer to the time of my appointment I think I will, just to talk through the process and alleviate some of my concerns. 

Thank you ever so much for your kindness, reassurance and support, I really appreciate it!

All the best, 

Eli

Hi [@elipluto]‍ 

I hope you are well, I'm sorry to hear you've been having these symptoms. I just wanted to ask if you got any further with diagnosis? I have been experiencing similar.

Thank you

x