Just over a week ago I had pain down one side of my breast and found a lump. My rather excellent gp had me in before lunch that day and I’m at the breast clinic next weds. I’m trying to be hopeful because my mum had lumps and breast clinic visits when she was a bit younger than I am now and it was always nothing bad.
The clinic have sent me a veritable essay about things that ‘may’ happen at my appointment.
My question is… Is there any chance that the consultant would examine me, here the family history and then say it’s all fine without any further tests? I’m quite a worry wort, and feel than would probably leave me in the same no man’s land I am just now. Do you know that if they do so scans would they scan both breasts or just the one with the lump?
I feel like I’m stuck between worrying that there is something, and worrying that I’m making a fuss over nothing and wasting everyone’s time.
Hi Ariom22 - welcome to this forum, I’m glad you have found it and hope you will find answers and support as you wait for your appointment. It’s great that your GP saw you quickly and that your appointment is soon.
First of all, please don’t worry that you are wasting anyone’s time - quite the opposite, it’s great that you are vigilant and getting changes looked at and doctors are always relieved that people listen to their advice to be body and breast aware. Your GP would not have referred you if he/she didn’t want a second opinion. That said, it’s important to keep in mind that most lumps are benign, as your Mum found.
I am almost certain that if you have been referred to the clinic that you will have some scans, probably a mammogram and ultrasound, rather than just be sent away after an examination by the doctor. That’s just my experience though - and I hope it reassures you that they are being thorough. I guess there may be occasions when they can tell all is well without tests - but doctors are always ultra cautious and want to be 100% sure what they are dealing with.
I think I had a mammogram and ultrasound on both breasts - it’s a bit of a blur now. If they only do one side and you want them to do both - there is no harm in asking them to do both.
The waiting time is tough so please do come back on here anytime you need to chat or offload, or if you think of any more questions, any at all. It is extremely normal to worry and feel like you do, so please don’t feel shy about asking further questions. I or others will be happy to help.
Thinking of you as you go forward, sending strength and hugs. Evie xx