One week diagnosed, new symptoms and anxiety

Diagnosed with breast cancer Recently diagnosed with breast cancer
1

Hi,

I was diagnosed with breast cancer last Monday after biopsies and an ultrasound. I’ve since had mammograms, another ultrasound on my lymph nodes and biopsies taken from there and I’m waiting for my MRI this Thursday. I’m also due to have my holistic needs assessment and fertility assessment on Thursday and should know my biopsy results by then. I’ve just gone 30 and my whole life has been turned upside down. My already fragile mental health has been on a huge rollercoaster and I’m desperately trying to cling to ‘normal life’.

After having no visible symptoms other than a fibroadenoma I’ve had for years (which is next to the cancer) becoming more prominent from the biopsies, I noticed something new last night. The skin on my breast (on the opposite side of the breast to the cancer) has now dimpled like orange peel and my whole breast has become much more sore and painful. More than just pain from the biopsies. I’ve contacted the breast clinic and they’re able to see me tomorrow morning but in the mean time my anxiety is going crazy. I can’t help but worry that’s it’s spread or progressing and is a much more aggressive cancer than just primary. My stomach has been upset which I think is just my IBS reacting to the stress and I feel so run down and exhausted.

Any reassurance would be greatly appreciated to stop me from losing my mind over the next 18 hours

Thank you!

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Hi Catlady92

Its good that your BCNs can see you tomorrow to put your mind at rest.  Its really hard to try to keep anxiety at bay but try distracting yourself by doing crosswords or reading or any other hobby that you may have.  I’m sorry I cant make you feel any better but I’m sending you a big virtual hug  I am sure there will be someone on here that can give you more reassurance x

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I am so sorry. It’s no consolation but we all lose our minds at first. Before we know what we are dealing with, but we know it’s cancer, it’s just horrific. Luckily they are seeing you quickly and at this point that is the best you can do. Otherwise just distract, distract, distract if you can and be very kind to yourself. If you’re exhausted nap. If you want nothing but chocolate, eat it. And know that the initial panic does pass. It won’t be like this forever. Your brain does adjust to your new reality regardless of what it is and you move on. Many hugs sent your way…