I was shocked to read I had to go back for further tests following my mammogram. It’s my third one. The letter said I could ring a nurse before my recall appointment, which I did. I could barely speak, but she was lovely and got my file. She said there were changes in my left breast, a density/shadow which they rated as ‘suspicion low end’. She said I will get two more different mammograms. A lateral view and and atomotherapy? view. Then if necessary an ultrasound scan. The waiting is so difficult and I’m already dead and buried. I don’t know how I’m going to get through the next few days. My appointment is Wednesday afternoon.
MumsTheWord
Hello and welcome to the forum.
I know it is hard but the main thing is they are being thorough as the last thing they would want to do is to send you away without being absolutely certain that there is nothing to be concerned about.
Just keep coming on here whenever you need help and support, there will always be someone who will be there for you.
Sending you hugs
Helena xx
Hi Mumstheword,
Just to add to what Helena has said, recalls are common & although it doesn’t feel like it, the mammo has done it’s job in picking something up that needs a closer look.
Honestly, even IF it is bc, then it’s very treatable, with a full recovery being the normal outcome.
I did get an early bc diagnosis from mammo 2 years ago, treatment was quite straightforward & I was back to life as normal within a few months.
It’s also good that you’ve had previous mammos, as if diagnosed, it’s likely to be very early, but it may well not even come to that.
No need to write yourself off just yet!
Do let us know how you get on.
ann x
Thank you for your comments. Now I’ve got over the initial shock of the letter - I was just expecting it to say normal then on first glance noticed the date of the next appointment, then panic - I’m trying really hard to remain calm. My son goes on holiday on Sunday so I’m thinking I’ll say nothing, rather than worry him too. Do you know if the menopause can bring changes in breast tissue? I’m taking hrt but the nurse on the telephone said not to worry about the increased risk of bc from taking it for only a year and a half.
Hi Mtw,
Breast tissue changes can be all sorts of things, but mostly it’s not bc. Even IF it is, it will be dealt with. Many of us here through it, out the other side & getting on with life as normal.
I’m just so glad I went for that mammo, as I very nearly didn’t.
It will be ok whatever happens.
ann x
Hi,
I’m pretty much in the same boat. I was called for my a mammogram early at the end of May, as part of a local trial. I’m 49. I expected nothing unusual.
I’ve had a mammogram before - about 3 years ago on one breast, because I had some pain which turned out to be nothing. An excess of water in the tissue and a small deep tissue cyst, but didn’t take any further action.
Then this Saturday I had a “second stage screening” letter. I’ve been crying ever since. I should explain. I had cervical cancer in 2011. That came as a shock too. In a period of 2 weeks I went from having symptoms to having a radical hysterectomy. We found out post surgery, when I awoke in full agony, that the epidural had failed. They tried me on morphine and various pain killers, but it came apparent that I’m allergic to opiod analgesics. I ended up on paracetemol and ibuprofen, with a 10" cut right up the middle of my belly to my naval. I had to have counselling (CBT) afterwards, because I was in shock and struggling to come to terms with everything happening so quickly. It didn’t help that they put me on a maternity ward for my treatment!
They’ve tried to put me on HRT, as despite leaving my ovaries in situ, I was thrown into menopause. Unfortunately I’m hypersensitive to hormone treatment (the pill used to give me migraines), and having gone through every form of HRT possible, right down to the lowest possible dose of a patch, they had to give up. Everything gives me migrainie.
So I didn’t expect any problems with my boobs. No HRT and no family history, apart from 2 aunts on my father’s side of the family. I know it may be nothing, I know that I stand a 75% chance of walking away with no further treatment… But I feel like I’ve been here before and I’m terrified. It’s brought back all of the memories from my previous cancer, and I’m worried about what they are going to give me to ease the pain if I do need treatment.
I’m hoping that it’s just because they have no record of my previous mammogram to compare with, and that it’s just because the cyst has shown itself on the first scan. Would they tell me if I rang and asked the breast clinic? Should I ring my GP and ask him to make sure he sends the mammogram records from 3 years ago to the clinic, just in case it’s a false alarm?
Sue xx
Hi Freeagain21, I’m sorry to hear that. I would definitely ring the clinic. They gave me information to help reassure me a little, although I don’t think anyone can be certain til you’re results are back. She might be able to tell you what their concern is. Good luck.
I rang the clinic. The radiographer was lovely but could only tell me that my breasts look different, and they need to understand why.
I see now you are back Wednesday morning. Good luck x
Hi Freeagain21
Aww that doesn’t help very much. It could be like you say, no records to compare it with. Apparently that is very common. It’s only natural that all the bad memories will come back, you sound like you’ve had a rough time. The breast clinic nurse said to me on the telephone that 9 out of 10 ladies who are recalled are fine. So try and hold on to that thought til your appointment. I know how difficult it is. I feel like my life flashed before my eyes when I opened the letter. I couldn’t speak, I was so upset, and shocked. Im been on HRT for a year and a half, which I mentioned to the nurse, but she said not to give it a second thought, as that amount of time wouldn’t make any difference. So now it’s just a case of trying to stay calm and wait for the appointment. Keep in touch xx
Good luck today MTW. Thinking of you. X
Thank you F21. Will let you know. It’s this afternoon xx
Hi, just a quick update. Been to the breast clinic this afternoon following my recall. Had some more mammograms but the dr could see nothing more so I had an ultrasound scan. She said it was a cluster of cysts in two places. Just to confirm, they popped a needle in and that’s was what it was for sure. Such a relief. I’m sure it will be fine for you tomorrow Freeagain21. Will be thinking of you. Good luck and let us know how you get on xx
Thank you. I feel like I can breathe again. I think we’re lucky to have such a thorough and reliable service available to us. At least you’re in early, less waiting around. Best of luck. I’m at work tomorrow but will check for your post when I can xxxx
That’s right Ladybowler. It really helps to have some positive feedback from others who are in the same situation as you have been yourself. xx
Hi Freeagain21. Awwww so pleased everything is okay. It’s such a relief. Life can start again. xxxxxxx