Hi everyone…
I’m 23 years old and saw my GP last week about a lump I noticed in my breast. It was quite small a few months ago when I first noticed it, but then it has grown in size fairly quickly and though it best to be looked at. My breast on that side has got bigger and the lump is now about 3cm accross.
Being only 23 I expected her to send me away or stick me on the long list to be seen at most, but she’s referred me there urgenty and I’m due to have the examinations next Tuesday. I have three children so have heard this further decreases my risk, but of course, you find a lump, what’s the first thng that goes through your mind - especially when you have three young children who rely on you.
I’m quite apprehensive about it all and haven’t told many people about it because I don’t really know what to say which is why I have come here for advice. A couple of people I have told didn’t know what to say to me either… so feel it was best not to bother.
I know at my age the chances of it being serious are very slim, but I still cannot help but worry. I am also going to the appointment by myself and wondered if anyone could tell me a bit more about what will happen? I know I have to have a mammogram, and ultrasound and a FNA.
Thanks in advance,
of course you are worried, you have a lump and your gp has referred you quickly which has sent alarm bells off in your head! you are right, the chances of a lump being malignant are small, but there is still a risk so your GP has done the right thing in referring you.
the waiting game is so difficult. i know i was there too, and there really is nothing that i can say to make it feel any easier… however, looking back on my situation i wish i had kept my appointment details to myself because when i was actually diagnosed with cancer i had a stream of phone calls and text messages from a whole load of people asking me “how did it go today”. i wish i’d kept my mouth shut!.. if you want more info about the actual appointment you can personal message me. i don’t mind sharing the ins and outs of my investigations with you.
i really hope it all turns out to be nothing… keep in touch and good luck. xx
Dear Lexi,
I am sure you will get a lot of support from the other forum users but I thought the BCC publication “Referral to a breast clinic” may be helpful. It explains what to expect at your appointment and about the different tests. The link is:
breastcancercare.org.uk/server/show/nav.680/changeTemplate/PublicationDisplay/publicationId/59
Kindest regards
Janet
BCC Facilitator
Hi Lexi
First thing any good GP should send everyone with a lump for urgent tests, its part of the guidelines.
The tests depend on what the hospital you go to is able to do.
If your lucky they’ll have a one stop clinic, think most normally do a mamogram -where your breasts are xrayed, can be a bit uncomfortable as they squish them between the plates.
Ultrasound which is the same as they do when your pregnant, and then if necessary take a tissue sample. This can be either a biopsy with a small probie thing or a fine needle biopsy,or they may do both. If where you go has a one stop clinic they can all be done in the same visit, others do them separately.
I was lucky as I had a one stop clinic, was some waiting around but all done in less than 2-3 hours.
Sometimes they have a good idea then and there if its ok or not, and then deffinate result in about a weeks time.
Nothing anyone can say will stop you worrying think its only natural but it is true that the majority of breast lumps are fine.
Hope all goes well for you.
g
The letter says appointment could last up to 2.5 hours so I would Imagine it will all be done in one appointment? It’s tomorrow afternoon and can’t sleep for worrying but guess that is probably normal an I am probably worrying for nothing, well at least I hope so. I shall let you know how I get on. Redcell I have pm’d you x
good luck today lexi - hope you can get it all done today and that they can give you some reassurance
Lexi - hope that it is good news today… {{{hugs}}}
Theresa
sorry i have not logged on for a few days so missed your pm and post… i’m sorry. really hope it went ok for you. when do you get your results?
Lexi I hope it has gone well for you today-thinking of you.
Vx