Hey! I’m just wondering If anyone suffered severe anxiety while waiting for anitial appointment! I’m so convinced I have somthing seriously wrong! I’ve lost half a stone in a week and just can’t eat or sleep! Did anyone feel this way???
Hi Meglouise
i have had primary BC 3 times now…and have had bad anxiety each time waiting for results… I think most people do…it’s really hard though I know… I lost 1.5 stone in 7 weeks… I still have anxiety now , nearly 10 years after my first diagnosis…but I have learned to manage it better…but those early days are unbearably hard waiting for results… I wish you well
Hi Meglouise
This gap between noticing symptoms and getting a diagnosis is very difficult and I’m sad you’re here at your young age and pregnant. The perception we all have of breast cancer till we’re in the system is so wrong. It’s damaging to our sense of safety and our hopes for the future when it need not be. Statistically, despite all the hype around Sarah Harding’s recent death (sorry to sound harsh, I’m not), breast cancer in young women is unusual. There can be many other explanations and a clear ultrasound should give you some comfort. If the private breast consultant didn’t say it was breast cancer (and they usually can tell) then you should try and have some faith in her/him. They certainly wouldn’t have left you without an indication of whether or not you have breast cancer. It’s unlikely the NHS will come to a different conclusion but, if there’s any uncertainty, they will run several additional tests. You may find you have the same consultant. Like you, I went privately for my initial diagnosis and treatment and then was referred to a private oncologist who recommended I go to the NHS hospital and, yes, he was my NHS oncologist!
It’s very easy to say don’t worry about it but that’s not going to help. As Shi, one of the community champions, always says, you don’t have cancer until a professional tells you that you do. Even then, it could be very simply treated, depending on its development. It’s not the terrifying world we’re led to believe, though it can be tough - and cruel - for some.
While you’re waiting for your appointment, try looking at YouTube for videos you can plug into to help you relax. My favourites are by Progressive Hypnosis but there are loads you can try out to see which relaxes you best. There are apps the NHS recommends like Calm and Headspace, all of which have strategies for lowering your level of anxiety if you persevere (hard when you’re so anxious) and you may have your own diversionary activities like running or whatever. Maybe find a trusted friend you can confide in. Failing that, ring the nurses at the number above. Their service is excellent and they may help you gain a healthier perspective. Meantime, if you want peace of mind, do NOT use Google. It’s not a diagnostic tool, it fuels our fears (been there) and doesn’t give a toss about your emotions. Itreally is dangerous territory and is best avoided.
I wish you all the best and hope you’ll update us after your consultation, as we do actually care even if, by pointing out the facts, we may sound unsympathetic. No way.
Jan x