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Recall after routine mammogram ..terrified

Dorestgirl
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I have just been recalled after my 3rd routine mammogram through the screening programme..I am nearly 57. The reason given when I phoned was because my left breast had some " thickening" from the mammogram  3 years ago. .I had not felt or saw any change but am now constantly examining that breast 

I am quite frankly terrified but feel guilty for being like thst as it could be nothing to worry about and there are people in far worse situations than me. I can't stop crying and have not told my 86yr old mum and adult children as don't want to worry them unnecessarily. 

I had a fibroadenoma removed around 28yrs or so ago but no problems since. No history of cancer in immediate family and generally healthy bar a surprise diagnosis of spinal ( not peripheral) osteoporosis 4 years ago. View was this was due to eostrogen deficiency as my periods stopped pretty quickly at 46. Recommendation was 5 yes of HRT as still had menopause symptoms  as last dexa showed expected improvements in bone density in my spine.

I am now trying not to regret going on HRT; it was an informed choice and it did what it needed to..improve my quality of life and bone density ..but you always think what if

I have a very supportive partner of 24years ..she recently had to take ill health retirement unexpectedly for severe fibromyalgia so we have had a few recent bumps in the road but navigated them together

I am normally a very positive glass half full person but this has devastated me and I am convinced I will get a diagnosis. I have a fab family including 4 grandchildren and a lot to be grateful for so I am struggling with my reaction  to something that isn't even confirmed right now . My appointment is Thursday so not long to wait but have to get through today and 3 days of work. 

How have others managed this period? I feel a little better for having put all this down in this post. I feel that I have let people down by being in this position but that is ridiculous I know. I just wish I could stop crying and get some sleep!

Thanks for reading  

 

 

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    Hi there, sorry to hear about your recall. I've read lots of peoples posts who have been in the same situation. Personally, I wasn't recalled after mammogram as I found a lump first, but when they did a mammogram at the breast clinic, they saw microcalcifications which hadn't been there on my previous mammogram. It's really hard not to worry, but I try to tell myself that it's really good that they do call you back if they see changes for further investigation. It's often nothing to be concerned about.  Have they said what they intend to do on Thursday? Is it another mammogram ? It's really good you have good support around you. We all find the waiting the hardest point, work can be a positive distraction. Try to find time for something you enjoy to take your mind off it when not working. Sending positivity your way - Mickey x

  • Offline in reply to MickeyM

    Hi 

    Thanks for your reply and kind words. Letter just said it could be a combination of further mammogram  ultrasound and biopsy and will take between 2 and 4 hrs depending on what they do. Nurse I spoke to said mammogram machine at breast clinic is more advanced than mobile screening one so I assume it'll start with that and see what that finds before deciding what next. 

  • Offline in reply to Dorestgirl

    Hi, you're more than welcome and hope it's helping you to chat. That sounds pretty standard to me. My original breast clinic apt started with a breast examination and then mammogram and ultrasound and then they did decide to do biopsies on lump. Then after mammogram results they decided to do biopsies in the microcalcifications but this came later. They couldn't do that for me on the day. It's good that you have an advanced mammogram machine, hopefully that will speed the process up a bit for you. Hope you get some news on Thursday after they do what they need to.  Sending positivity Mickey x 

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    Hi there I got recalled from my routine mammogram too and I can honestly say I was terrified as well. It's been the toughest 5 weeks of my life. I was diagnosed with a 19 mm tumour at stage 1. My treatment so far has  been an operation to remove the tumour and a sentinel node biopsy. I had my results last week and I'm pleased to say the margins were clear as were my lymph nodes. I will have radiotherapy and will need to take letrozole for 10-years. Now I've had my surgery I feel fine and have come to terms with the diagnosis.

    I completely understand how you feel but 9 out of 10 referrals to the breast clinic are nothing to worry about. But if something has been picked up from your mammogram,  chances are it's been caught early and you will be fine. I think the word cancer is terrifying but try and keep a bit of perspective as it's likely if it is anything,  it can be treated relatively easily.

    If you have any questions I am more than happy to answer them. I am so much more positive now and I'm looking forward to this episode being behind me. I am still making plans for the future and being happy.

    The staff at the breast clinic are amazing. They do a fantastic job and once you are under their care you will feel so different. Please be assured you will be in the best hands.

    With very best wishes

    Jane xx

     

  • Offline in reply to JaneRu

    Thank you Jane ..really appreciate your reassuring words xx

  • Offline in reply to Dorestgirl

    Hello Dorestgirl 

    I was recalled after a mammogram too. Unfortunately mine was a grade 2 lobular cancer. That was 2 years ago now nearly to the day. (I am really well now and enjoying life!!) 
     

    Most recalls are not cancer. So just want to say  I hope your recall turns out to be a false alarm. I know that doesn't help you right now but try and take one day at a time  Easy as you go. 

    IF it turns out to be cancer the medics put  a plan of treatment together pretty quickly. Everything is fully explained and discussed with you. That helps enormously.  Puts you back 'on track' and it feels as if there is a positive way forward. Truly it will help calm you if that's where you go. 

    Good luck!!! This site is filled with many kind, understanding  and knowledgable people. Inspirational people too!! It's helped me out a lot over the months. 
    Take care. Wishing you good health!!

    Kebbs x 
     

     

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