Underarm lump

Hello everyone,

On Boxing Day I found a lump under my right arm, I got a gp appointment at the earliest opportunity only to be told that she didn't think it was anything to worry about and to wait two weeks and see what transpired. I tried to put it out of my mind but found that quite difficult as I started to experience other symptoms such as pain and tingling in my arm, pain in my spleen area, night sweats to name but a few. When I next spoke to my gp she said that maybe I should have a scan so she referred me on 14th January. I have, today, spoken to the ultrasound department at my local hospital only to be told that the wait will be at least six weeks if not longer!!

I am so worried. Even though my doctor has examined me and listened to my litany of symptoms she says it's nothing to worry about and that I'll just have to wait. It's this waiting that is getting me down, despite what my gp says, I am convinced I've got lymphoma or something similar and am concerned that the longer I wait before anything is done, the worse it will get.

Has anyone else been in a similar situation that's ended with a positive outcome? I suppose I'm just looking for some further reassurance, something to help me sleep at night.

  • Hi,

    Sorry to hear what you're going through. For me, waiting for tests/results is always the hardest part.

    If the doctors were really concerned they can refer you, and in my experience they try to see you within 2 weeks for anything they think could be cancer.

    I would try to take some reassurance from that.

    I am a lymphoma survivor and even if it turns out to be worst case scenario and is lymphoma, its not always a death sentence and is (in the oncologists words) a highly treatable cancer.

    I know it is easier said than done but try not to worry too much.

    Take care

  • Hi vickivickivicvic.  Welcome to the forum.

    How old are you?  I know that a gentleman normally shouldn't ask, but when it comes to cancer it can be an important piece of the puzzle.

  • Thank you for your reassuring reply, I can take some comfort from your positive words. I realise that I just have to wait and nothing can be gained from endless worry and sleepless nights.

    Thank you once again

    Vicki

  • Hi,

    Thank you for your reply.

    I am female aged 60.

    Hopefully that doesn't make the likelihood of it being cancer greater?

    Vicki

  • I think lymphoma is a cancer that generally effects younger people and is a very common one (if cancers can be common) so it's also very treatable. 
    I was referred to breast clinic for pain and some swelling in my underarm area & had my appointment just yesterday. Thankfully everything was ok, I was seen within a week of my referral. Please push your GP and breast clinic department with your worries. 6 weeks is an awfully agonising wait I can imagine! 
    hope it all goes well for you xxx