To think I’ve been very stupid with not going to see Dr sooner

[Shreddiesandmuseli]

So I’m 39 and start of the year I noticed one breast was itchy, quite an intense itch, mostly in the evenings. This went on for about 6 weeks and I put it down to wearing maternity bras which are now far too big, months after I’ve stopped breastfeeding. So changed those and then around a similar time the breast itching turned into an intense pain on that same side for about a week. Then another 2-3 weeks later I noticed a lump - at that point I went to see the GP who fast tracked me to the breast cancer clinic.

It’s now 6 weeks later as there were no appointments at this so called fast track clinic and this breast pain is burning all the time and I feel a tugging sensation constantly around the breast. The craggy feeling lump feels worse than ever and I’m sure is bigger. I have an appointment on Friday and I’m absolutely terrified. I’m up in the night with anxiety about it and how stupid I’ve been. I’ve got 2 children aged 4 & 2 and I feel absolutely awful that I could have let this progress without doing anything about it. How stupid have I been? 🤢

yabu - life is busy and it’s not your fault there were no appointments

yanbu - you should have got this sorted sooner and not got into this situation in the first place

any positive similar stories I’d be very grateful! Thanks

Just saw your update! Great news x

So happy for you OP.

I’ve not voted.

Life’s busy, you’ve got your hands full 💐

I think the important thing is to not repeat the delay is future. Just make sure you get smears done, mammograms etc done on time in future. I know it can be terrifying. I found a lump in the week before my wedding. I was in my late twenties and naively thought I was too young which wasn't a view shared by my GP. I got an emergency private appointment with a breast specialist who told me it wasn't a lump, just thickening. That was 30 years ago so I think they got it right.

i am so glad they werent concerned.
life is busy,

Really pleased to hear this OP!

I wouldn't have gone to the Drs for an itchy breast either. You've done exactly the right thing and are being way too hard on yourself. I hope you get a good outcome.

Start of the year to now = 4 months. Nobody goes to the doctor (I can just imagine how fast the receptionist would give you that appointment) with an itchy breast.

You've gone as quickly as any of us would have, given your symptoms. The odds are it's nothing sinister - please don't add the stress of thinking you've done something wrong to your understandable fears.

Great news, OP. Thanks for updating.

Apologies, posted a comment without RTFT.

SO pleased to hear you had your appointment and - as is usually the case (but wasn't going to be in your head, obviously!) - there's nothing sinister going on.

Have a lovely weekend.

I don't think you're silly for ignoring an itchy boob. I'd have chalked it up to a million things before I thought anything sinister. Plus you've got 2 little kids, who obviously take up a lot of brain-space!
You've taken the right steps now. Good luck to you OP!

Breast cancer is not usually painful or itchy- it's usually a slow-growing painless lump. It is highly unlikely to be cancer and much more likely to to be a cyst or an infection- especially as you have recently been breast-feeding. Try not to worry or beat yourself up about this.

Sorry- just read OPs update- see- I told you so! 😊

Fucksake - clicked on wrong one by mistake - I won't be alone, that's why the voting is skewed. Need coffee.
You are berating yourself unnecessarily love. I do it too. It won't change anything. I would not have gone to GP initially, no. It is not your fault there has been a wait. Please don't do this to yourself, lovely.

Ah, just seen the update. Good stuff. Enjoy your weekend x

I’m not going to vote on this one because I don’t think beating yourself up about what you could have done differently will make any difference. Also it’s not your fault the NHS is in such a state.
I hope you get seen as soon as possible. Best wishes x