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AIBU?

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Original poster

To ask what happens on the cancer pathway?

16 replies

AnchorDownDeepBreath · 05/03/2019 10:25

I've been referred on it. The doctor said it's a two week pathway and he'd refer straight away; but I was too stunned to ask anything else.

Will I get seen within two weeks? He mentioned a cystoscopy would be a good idea - is that within two weeks, or just the initial appointment?

I'm floored.

OP posts:
nowshesaturtle · 05/03/2019 10:30

Flowers. The two week referral is for the first appointment although they might also do the test at the same time. Depends on the hospital and the facilities it has.

Take someone with you, if you possibly can. It's hard to remember what's been said, and also it may not be a good idea for you to drive before or after, if you're feeling a bit wobbly.

Try not to panic - easy for me to say I know, but I've been there (and I'm still here)

Fantasmic143 · 05/03/2019 10:32

Is it your bladder? My DH was diagnosed with bladder cancer 2 and a half years ago after a couple of occasions of not getting to the loo in time and generally feeling below par. He had a scan which showed something in the bladder and then saw a consultant within the 2 week window. He was very unwilling to commit as a cystoscopy with a biopsy had to be done for a definitive diagnosis. That was done within another 2 weeks and, because you are awake for them, DH knew then that it was a tumour as he could see it. Lab results confirmed the type and grade. He has had 2 surgeries, BCG treatment and no recurrence over the last 2 plus years. He is very well.

I am happy to answer more specific questions if it is bladder cancer that is suspected. Hang in there as the waiting is the WORST and we learned very early on just to look to the next appointment. And to ask the medics LOTS of questions (well, I did!). All the best.

Original poster
AnchorDownDeepBreath · 05/03/2019 10:43

Thank you both Flowers It is for my bladder.

I'm glad that your Dh is okay now Fantasmic143 and nowhesaturtle I hope things are going as well as possible.

I only managed to get a doctors appointment today because I've been bleeding after I urinate for two solid weeks now... they haven't really been interested in symptoms before that.

I'm suddenly feeling very scared. DP will come with me, he's lovely. He's asked if I want him to come home from work but there's no real point, I don't think, we'll just be waiting together then.

I guess I need to do some reading about bladder cancer.

OP posts:
Tomtontom · 05/03/2019 10:50

Hi Anchor, if it helps most people that get referred on the cancer pathway do not have cancer, in fact very few do. All it means is, you've got symptoms that need looking at by someone more specialised, and because there's a small chance of cancer, they want that to happen sooner rather than later.

If you can resist it I'd hold off on the reading until you've been seen, it's only going to make you worry more.

I hope they can put your mind at rest when you go.

reluctantbrit · 05/03/2019 10:53

I was referred last Summer (Breast issue). I received a letter from the hospital 2 days after I saw the GP and had my appointment exactly 2 weeks later. I had a whole morning of examinations and tests, I think I started at 8.30am and came out after 1pm, quite sore in some places and emotionally drained.

I was on my own, tbh, even with my normally great husband I was quite glad. He brought and collected me and was happy to chat while I waited but I think he would have made me even more anxious.

I got a clear-result luckily.

I found the staff in the hospital department very friendly and supportive and also helpful when I found before the appointment to check timing.

Take drinks and some snacks, I wasn't able to go anywhere near the cafe/shop during my time there as I was sent from one area to the next.

nowshesaturtle · 05/03/2019 10:55

I'd also second not reading up on cancer until you've had a diagnosis. Dr Google isn't the doctor you need at this point.

Tomtontom is absolutely right, most people who go on the pathway don't have cancer, just potentially cancer-like symptoms.

And of those who do have cancer, many, many can now be cured. To the best of my knowledge I am now fine. More Flowers for you and also Gin

ineedtostopbeingsolazy · 05/03/2019 11:03

The two week thing is to be seen by a consultant. After that you may be referred for further tests by the consultant. When you get these tests will depend on what the consultant thinks.

Like a pp said, the majority of people under the two week rule don't have cancer but it's good you're being seen.

When we went to the gp for my dd we got a call and were seen by the consultant after a few days but she definitely had cancer and the gp knew it.

If the symptoms might point to cancer they have to do the two week referral but it definitely does not mean you have have cancer because the symptoms can be caused by a whole host of other things.

Angeldust747 · 05/03/2019 11:28

Hi, my nanna had the BCG treatment for bladder cancer around 4/5 years ago, and has had no recurrance. She went once a week for the treatment as an outpatient, it took less than an hour from getting to the hospital to leaving so I was able to pop out of work on my lunch to take her. I think this lasted for 3 months in total.
After this she went in every three months at first for a camera to check, then 6 monthly and now it is every year.
Bladder cancer is very treatable and often doesn't require invasive surgery. Hopefully you get seen quickly and get all of the answers you need to put your mind at ease for now.

Fingers crossed everything is OK! Xx

Fantasmic143 · 05/03/2019 11:40

I agree with these other suggestions to avoid reading and Google, if you can. We have learned that cancer is very individual and everyone's experience is different. Websites talk in generalisations and you will only end up feeling more scared. This is a very understandable emotion - you will feel as if you are on an emotional rollercoaster - just go with it if you can as it is so hard when you just don't know anything and sometimes it is ok not to be brave. Happy to keep listening.

Original poster
AnchorDownDeepBreath · 05/03/2019 14:59

Thank you all. I've managed to get back to work and resist googling.

I need to pee all the time now. Must be in my head, but I hope it doesn't take them long to get me an appointment.

Thanks for all of you.

OP posts:
Original poster
AnchorDownDeepBreath · 08/03/2019 13:16

I've heard nothing yet, and the symptoms are getting worse. Would it be really pointless me calling the doctors again? I don't want to hassle them.

OP posts:
HugAndRoll · 08/03/2019 13:21

I was on the pathway (but for my colon) last month. I was lucky and didn't have anything sinister going on from my colonoscopy, and I'm now on a normal waiting list for an OGD.

I got a call from the hospital a few days after my GP appointment. Therefore, if you haven't heard anything I would ring the GP as it's the weekend tomorrow.

tierraJ · 08/03/2019 13:23

Yes do call the gp. Hope everything goes well x

minmooch · 08/03/2019 13:26

Yes I would ring - especially if symptoms have worsened. Please make them GP know that when you call.

MegaBat · 08/03/2019 19:43

I'd call and gently chase. How old are you by the way? The chances of you having bladder cancer are low you know? You call it a cancer pathway (correct) but you're aware it doesn't mean you have cancer?

I had your symptoms. Had the cystoscopy etc and eventually it turned out to be a kidney stone so honestly, try not to panic. It's a fair few things before bladder cancer that's for sure

OpenMindedSceptic · 12/01/2026 18:57

I know this is an old thread, but I am having the same issue and also been referred on 2 week wait pathway.
OP, how did it all work out for you?

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