Hi all,
I didn’t think I’d ever find myself here….
I found some ‘changes’ to my left breast 2 weeks ago- mainly a dip in the top of my boob, and a scab on my areola which hasn’t gone away. The scab itself is a small circular patch, it’s very ‘scaly’ and the top of it comes off to reveal a ‘new’ scab if that makes sense? i have ‘lumpy’ breasts anyway, so whilst there is a lump present, I’m unsure if this is normal for me or something more untoward.
so anyway I took myself to my GP, who saw me the next day- and immediately referred me to the breast clinic - with current NHS waiting times, she was very realistic that whilst it’s under the two week wait, it may take longer which is to be expected.
i returned from work the following day and there was a letter from the hospital giving me an appointment (Tuesday 4th October) - alarm bells started ringing with how quick they gave me an appt. I know I shouldn’t overly worry, and thankfully?! I’ve had a manic week at work where I’ve not had chance to even think about it, until now, the weekend before the appt and my mind is doing over time!
the nurse practitioner who saw me mentioned Paget’s disease, and good old Dr Google has provided an endless list of ‘information’. I try not take it all in without reading too much into it, until I of course have my appt, but it’s proving difficult.
i am 35, - single mum to 3 kids (3,4 and 10), I moved over 40 miles away from my family a year ago, and now I’m feeling incredibly isolated.
i don’t know what I’m looking for here, perhaps some reassurance? Who knows. I almost just needed to get it out there.
im incredibly private, (only one person knows about my appt) as I hate to burden anyone until I have concrete facts.
thanks for reading.
N
x
Hi N
Presumably good old Google brought you here, which is the right place to be. The nurses’ helpline offers an exceptional service where you can get many of your questions answered. Otherwise TURN OFF YOUR COMPUTER. None of us here is likely to recommend Dr Google. There’s no filter, no emotional awareness and it’s highly unlikely you’ll find out anything except stuff that’s irrelevant or terrifying. It’s so tempting but you’ll find many of us have learnt the hard way.
There is a 2-week NHS promise. The fact that you got a quick appointment might be sheer luck, a cancellation, an extra clinic - it won’t be down to your condition because that is diagnosed and has anyone mentioned cancer? Almost 90% of breast lumps and breast conditions referred to our hospitals turn out to be benign conditions - cysts, fibroadenomas (build-up of gristly tissue) so you have that on your side too. If you are unfortunate enough to get a cancer diagnosis, there will be a lot of waiting, especially for test results, so try to find ways to fill your time that don’t send your imagination into a spin when you may, in a couple of days’ time, wonder why on earth you let it happen. But, just in case, why not have a go at meditation or mindfulness? I know you have a young family and a lot on your plate but there must be moments after bedtime when you can focus on your own needs.
You need to rid yourself of this idea that, if something goes wrong, you might be a burden. At least you’ve told one person about the appointment but have you talked about your concerns? This isn’t a time to be alone. You’re right to not blazon the news around - too much uncertainty - but you need someone to talk to, to have your back if necessary and definitely to be with you when you go back for results (just in case) so please think about who’s in the best position to help you out. In the meantime, remember that 90% and, as Shi says, you do not have cancer until a consultant tells you you have. So, absolutely no more googling (if you have a question, ring the helpline) and best of luck when you go to clinic on Tuesday. Let us know how it all goes.
Jan x