Where do I go from here…?

[leanne816162829]

Hi everyone - my first post as I don’t know where else to turn. I’m 35 and have a painful lump in my breast that hasn’t changed despite antibiotics. Its 4 more weeks for my follow up This is to decide if they want to repeat ultrasound which will be ‘x’ weeks later.

I’ve asked for a mammogram or biopsy, but breast surgeon says no clinical reason to do either at this point. There is a strong family history of breast cancer including my mum and I’m just not sure what to do from here it’s making me very anxious and it hurts like hell. I should be relieved they don’t think it’s cancer but how can I be sure without a biopsy? If people could read my notes and weigh in I’d be so grateful. Thank you x

[Tili]

@leanne816162829 Welcome to the forum we are all here for you, with love and support.

So sorry to read you post, you are so young and have quite a lot going on, you sound very mature and knowledgeable as to what is happening, Maybe call your breast cancer nurse at the hospital explaining how you feeling, they are around to help you through don’t think you are being a nuisance because your not, I feel they may like you to complete your course of antibiotics before making a further assessment.

Unfortunately, everything seems to be so drawn out at the moment, and the waiting game is endless.

Wishing you well, with fingers crossed for a speedy outcome, please let us know how your getting on.

With the biggest hugs Tili

[bluetit11]

First of all hugs.

I’ve had 3 types of breast lump. The first is a fibroadenoma I’ve had since I was 20. Still there post lumpectomy, we’ve been together 38 years now and it was biopsied for the first time this year. No mammogram or ultrasound when diagnosed as I was deemed too young for mammogram and unltrasound was in its infancy. It has been screened with ultrasound since.

Second lump was a cyst and drained at breast clinic.

Third was cancer for which I’ve had surgery and radiotherapy incoming.

All have shown up well on ultrasound and the radiography team have been confident about what they can see.

What I’m really saying is the ultrasound can give them plenty of information so try not too worry too much. I also know that’s often easier said than done, especially with your family history.

[Nurse_BCN]

Hello leanne816162829,

Thanks for your post. It’s understandable that you’re anxious about the painful lump in your breast and the fact you have a strong family history of breast cancer.

Breast changes can happen for many reasons. They may be due to injury, due to hormonal changes as part of your monthly cycle or due to benign conditions (not cancer). You’ll probably find your breasts change quite a bit throughout your life. Breast pain is very common in women of all ages, and can have several causes, which our information explains.

Breast cancer is also uncommon in women in their 20s and 30s so the changes you have noticed are more likely to be because of one of the reasons mentioned above rather than cancer.

Having a family history of breast cancer does not automatically mean you are at a greater risk of developing breast cancer in the future.

Most breast cancers aren’t inherited. There are only a small number of people who will be at a greater risk of developing breast cancer because they have a significant family history. It’s important to remember that the biggest risk factors for developing breast cancer are being a woman and increasing age.

We see from your post that you’ve been given a form for a family history assessment.

It’s helpful if you can find out as much information as possible about your family history on both your mother’s and father’s side of the family when completing the information on the form. Our information about family history risk assessment explains what details your doctor needs to know in order to assess you.

If the information suggests you may have a significant family history, you’ll be referred to either the local family history clinic or a regional genetic centre (depending on what’s in your local area). Here your risk will be assessed further.

It’s good to know you have a follow up appointment at the clinic, as your symptoms may have settled. You can also discuss your concerns about not being offered a biopsy. Doctors follow guidance when making decisions to perform diagnostic tests, which they would be able to explain their rationale, so you can ask them to explain any treatment decisions.

Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.

Our number is 0808 800 6000. If you have hearing or speech difficulties dial 18001 followed by our number and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.

If you would prefer one of our nurses to call you. Please complete this form ticking the box agreeing to a call back.

Our usual opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm and 9am -1pm on Saturdays.

We are closed on English bank holidays.

Out of hours you can leave a message and we will call you back when we next open.

Best wishes,

Addie

Breast Care Nurse

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