Hi
I need a little advice, support or just reassurance I’m not being a drama queen.
I’ve recently found a lump, about 6 weeks ago, last week I went to the GP she confirmed there was a lump and I needed to be referred to the breast clinic for further tests. I’ve previously had lumps removed in the past (last one over 10years ago) so conclusion was this maybe the same but should still be checked by an ultrasound.
I then get a voicemail from her, saying her supervisor recommends not being referred and to see me in 3 months if the lump is still there…
This has made me feel so uneasy and I asked to still be referred for peace of mind, I’m also 39 and I’m hearing more and more women in there late 30’s are being diagnosed with breast cancer. My Dad also died of cancer (not breast) when I was a teenager, so just the thought of what this could or couldn’t be terrifies me.
Anyway fast forward a week after numerous calls to the GP requesting the referral or to speak to the supervisor, the Dr finally calls me back.
After stressing my concerns and asking to still be referred, even explaining he hasn’t seen me, so he shouldn’t be making that decision without examining me himself, he is standing his ground and sticking by his decision, I get the ‘I’m not a Dr so I wouldn’t know what the lump is, he also told me the NHS is not there for my reassurance’ I was so taken back by his power trip patronising comments. It ended with I can either accept the 3 month wait or go back to the GP for a second opinion.
I’m booked to see a different DR next week, what if this DR says the same based on the others DRs comments, am I overreacting… should I wait the 3 months, or should I push for a scan? I just don’t know what to do!
Welcome to the forum, so pleased you have posted your comments, I’m not sure many are in your position. I really can’t believe what has happened to you, I feel this is unacceptable as we know our bodies better than an GP.
Maybe call the breast cancer nurses on this site who are extremely, kind, helpful and will be able to point you in the right direction 0808 800 6000.
Let’s hope you will be sorted very soon to put your mind as rest. Wishing you health and happiness going forward.
Hi, I totally agree with the previous advice.
Insist on being seen by another doctor, a lump is a lump and should be checked, it’s irrelevant if you’ve had previous benign lumps.
I’m so sorry you’ve been put into this position, at such a stressful time.
It highly likely that it will turn out to be nothing, but as you say how can they know without looking.
The breast cancer nurses on this site will definitely be able to offer advice on how to navigate your next steps.
But generally we should always trust our instincts, and if something feels different or is new in our breasts, always get it checked.
I hope you get the treatment and ultimate reassurance you deserve quickly.
Welcome to the forum and so sorry to hear your situation.
I agree it does seem a bit odd, if you are over 30 years old you should according to NICE guidelines be referred, if you’re under 30 years old it states consider a non urgent referral. This is not come back to GP in 3 months.
As already said many lumps are not anything to be worried about but you do need to see a breast specialist to be able to do the relevant checks to diagnose you.
I hope you get more sympathy from the doctor next week and please quote the NICE guidelines if you don’t! In the meantime a chat with the BCN nurse may be helpful * Helpline: 0808 800 6000 (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm; Sat 9am-1pm). Speak to our trained helpline team. No questions are too big or too small.
So sorry to hear that this has happened - firstly to have your plan overturned by voicemail and second to be spoken to and shut down like that. I don’t have a lot of advice to give that has not already been given except to say that if it’s at all possible perhaps you might consider changing you surgery as the person in charge is obviously inflexible and unpleasant and it may be rubbing off on the other Drs.
Wishing you better luck next time and good health xx
Agree with the other comments .
Getting a second opinion is the way to go if you are not happy. The fact is that these people owe us all a duty of care .IS THEIR JOB.
Its your health so don’t worry about thinking you are making a nuisance
I’m so sorry to hear what you’re going through. As @Tili and @naughty_boob mentioned, our breast care nurses are here for any question or for a chat. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your concerns. They can be reached on the free helpline: 0808 800 6000 (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm; Sat 9am-1pm).
