I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006 (I was 28 at the time) Had all clear mammograms every time since then until yesterday when I went for my checkup and my breast specialist told me she could feel a lump and wants me to go for a scan and mammogram to check it out. she did say it was probably a cyst and this scan is just to make sure - but i am so scared i am going to be told i have cancer again. anyone else had this? I have never a cyst before, and this lump has never been felt in my breast (or seen on a mammogram)
Hi Joeben,
I haven’t been in your situation before so I can’t comment on that, but I have been the other way round! Various types of lumps etc. before I got cancer.
I have had two lumps removed surgically from my right breast; the first was in (approx) 1987 when I was 19. That was benign, but they removed it as a precaution as it had grown. The second was in 2009. Again, I’d had the lump for some time, but it had enlarged. I don’t remember them saying much at the time, but it think it was showing signs of being pre-cancerous.
However, the reason I went to the clinic at that point was because I felt a swelling in my left breast. Very soft, not solid. I am religious when it comes to self-exams, so I noticed it, though the surgeon then was amazed I had spotted it. This turned out be a very large cyst. There were also multiple small ones which couldn’t be felt. The radiographer drained the large cyst there and then. It was quite amazing to watch it disappear before my eyes!!
Just so as you know, my cyst didn’t show on a mammo. It showed very clearly on US. As far as I’m aware, cysts usually look like a ‘black hole’ on US, because they’re fluid filled. With any luck, this is what you will see on the scan! They don’t have to be drained, but as you’ve had cancer, I’d imagine they would drain it and probably test the fluid.
It’s easy for me to say, but try not to worry until you know what you’re dealing with.
Best of luck, Mel. xxx
Hi joeben
In addition to the support here please feel free to call our helpliners on 0808 800 6000, lines are open weekdays 9-5 and Sat 10-2
Take care
Lucy BCC
Hi Joeben
I really do hope you have had good news re your scan, my heart goes out to you cos even just the thought of it you feel out of control again when you first get a recall - which is why I am here. I have breast cancer 3 years ago and am in my 5 year check up period. I had my mammogram in January and they have called me back as texture in other breast is looking not same as rest of breast. I have to go for an ultrasound next Tues and am petrified what they gonna tell me. Having been through bc I know a little of what to expect but the fear is still there. I used to be a frequent visitor to the Breast cancer care website and am trying to see if I can find my old forums such as Shropshire Lasses which I started!
Hope you are OK and I send all my best to you.