Terrified!

[Madgirl2]

Yesterday I posted a question under the title 'breast lumps'. I was asking if malignant breast lumps felt different to benign ones. I lied and said that I was curious after a conversation at work (thought that if I said I had a lump that everyone would just say, go to the doctor - which is what everyone said anyway!!!!). However, the truth is I have recently discovered a breast lump and am trying to make myself feel a bit better. I am a 2nd year nursing student and have been studying breast malignancy recently (at a much deeper level that the man on the street). This resulted in a thorough self exam during which I found the lump. I was diagnosed with benign fibrocystic disease years ago and have got used to having lumpy breasts but I just don't know whether this lump has been there for years or is new. Additionally, I have recently been dieting and lost 20lbs and my practice nurse has told me that it is common for people who have lost weight to notice lumps in their breasts due to the reduction in fatty tissue making lumps more prominent - she says she sees this quite often. I know the odds are stacked in my favour (no family history etc.) but I am 35 and 8000 cases of breast CA were diagnosed in the under 50's last year! I went to my GP today who suspects fibrous tissue as the lump is in an existing fibrous area (an area already known to me). He has referred me to a breast clinic for more tests (I know this is routine for all patients that present with breast issues at my practice). Anyway, I know you guys can't do anything for me but I'm really scared that my world is going to be turned upside down. I often see you all giving each other support during tough times and I could sure do with some just now. Can anyone make me feel better? Been having dark thoughts and tears on and off today!

[PinkFizz]

Awwww you poor thing.You will soon know that you can tell us lot anything and we will be as supportive as possible.All I can really say is that you have done everything right so far which is good,and that you must stay positive.As you already know,it will more than likely be fibrous tissue.I was in hospital last year and the lady next to me was in a very similar sitiuation - she had found a lump and was in for a biopsy.She got herself into a terrible state,and it turned out to be nothing more than a benign lump.
Please,we are all here,day or night,if you want to talk.Im sure everything will be just fine.Bigs hugs for you.

(((((((((((((((((((((XXX))))))))))))))))))))))))

[snagged]

Hi Madgirl2... sound like you know more about this than anyone on here ever could... all I can say is try not to worry too much before the further tests... at this point you don't actually know what to specifically worry about!... so you start worrying about anything/everything... once you know more for definate, take it from there... as they say 'ignorance is bliss'... you're obviously too knowledgable!... hope all goes well and it turns out to be something minor... : )

[raysparx1]

Right Madgirl2,

As a student nurse you are far from stupid,you know yourself that even if it were Breast cancer,if caught early the majority of cases are now ok, as I said yesterday my wife had it,that was 6 years ago things are improving by the week, so the outlook is improving, but you probably haven't got it anyway, but the one piece of advice I can give you is "Be Positive" look forward you will be ok, so start looking on the bright side if anything is there it is now being dealt with,if nothing is found,great but whatever the outcome please be positive, good luck, Ray xx

[B00]

Awwww bless your little cotton socks :-)

I'm sure that when you go to your docs it will prove to be something totally harmless.

Take care. Let us know how you get on :-)
XXXXX

[Madgirl2]

Thanks everyone - your support is already bringing tears to my eyes (again!!) Snagged, you are sooooo right! Knowledge is a dangerous thing! xx

[crete]

Mad, as you are a student nurse you are well aware that most breast lumps are benign and your g p is erring the side of safety as thet would with anyone presenting with a lump . it is only natural you will be concerned as all females will be . just get the appointment over with and in the meantime it may be of benefit to talk to a friend or a family member. good luck. i can relate to the issue of the weight loss.

[Madgirl2]

Cheers Crete! Beginning to feel better already!

[crete]

be sure you let us know how you get on.

[Madgirl2]

Definitely!

[oldwoman]

I`ve had a lump for 20 years now. I know how you feel a sinking in the pit of your stomache. Worry when ther`s something to worry about. Chin up, its alright us saying but best of luck.

[Madgirl2]

Thank you oldwoman! I have already decided that tomorrow is going to be a better day! I have patients that need me to be on form!!

[lulu85]

Poor you, as you are so knowledgeable, I suppose you're possibly worrying more?

Anyway, all I can say is stay positive and live each day to the full, then there will never be any regrets! Thats what I try to do.

And, maybe the problem you had previously has just come back.

Something someone once taught me, life is a learning curve, there's no time for regrets...

...so maybe the thing before was just for you to learn that this happens to you and therefore its just popping up to say hello again coz it thought you missed it!!!

lots of hugs oooooooooooooooooooooo

xxx

[Hellion]

Awww Madgirl I really do know just how you feel, my great grandmother, grandmother and mother all had breast cancer so I was VERY frightened when I found a lump at age 31. However I always like to face these things head on so after all the usual tests it was a releief to find it was a breast cyst that was aspirated there and then, I've had several more since then and it still scares me (I now have an 8 year old son who I want to see grow up) even though I know the routine. The thing is, I'm in the system and only ever 12 months away from a thorough examination (aside from my self examinations) so if it does happen it will be picked up and treated early.
My Mother had breast cancer at age 44 in 1975 we had lunch yesterday (so remember many, many,many women survive breat cancer.)
You feel worse in the middle of the night don't you? We here if you need us huge big hug.....

((((X)))

[Madgirl2]

Hellion, thank you so much for your encouragement. I really sympathise with your situation. Considering your family history, it must be a constant concern - especially being a mum (which I am not). I loved your story about having lunch with your mum yesterday - she is a true inspiration! I have been studying a 'fake' scenario at uni regarding a 35 year old mum who finds a lump and needs investigations. I have to be able to convince my tutors that as a nurse, I would know how to care for this patient! Strangely, I now find myself in the same situation as my case study! Maybe this is one of life's little lessons - by going through this myself will make me a better nurse!

[raysparx1]

Hi Madgirl,

You sound a bit more positive now that is great,keep it going, Ray xx

Hi Helli, glad you and your mum are doing well, keep smiling like you allways do xx

[Madgirl2]

Ray, only more positive because of the support I've had here tonight. Still scared but trying to keep my chin up. Will keep you all posted on developments!

[raysparx1]

Hope you are ok, Madgirl, keep positive xx

[Madgirl2]

Hi Ray! Yeah doing okay - just putting it to the back of my mind until my appointment comes through! Thanks for your concern! x