Scared I have breast cancer, lymph nodes enlarged - help!!

[worrieditscancer]

I've just found an enlarged LN in my armpit and have had nagging shoulder pain for weeks on the same side and arm feels heavy. Not convinced it's mechanical with the shoulder as it's there at rest. Also got enlarged LNs at the base of my neck on the same side. No recent infections, illnesses, not even a cold since I can't remember when.

Also recurrent pain in my back, same side, medial to the shoulder blade. Not the spine, it's further out. An odd, drilling pain, not sharp but dull. When it starts it is hard to ignore and makes me feel a bit sick. It's been there a few weeks.

Also pain under right rib cage which I think is liver?

Have some risk factors for breast ca - drink too much, diet not great, DM got it in her seventies (I'm 40).

I went to GP about the pains, said I was worried and she referred me for blood tests but said it was more reassurance than anything else (likely?). She thinks it's just normal 'aches and pains' and I have had a lot of stress at work lately.

I know you will tell me to go back to GP - and I will asap of course - but can anyone tell me if enlarged LNs in the armpit are always worrying. I am terrified and feel like I won't sleep tonight :(

Hi there. So sorry to hear you are worried. I had a breast lump investigated several years ago, and also had shoulder pain and a lump in the neck. After many investigations, the conclusion was the breast lump was normal tissue, and the neck lump and shoulder pain immediately disappeared. I am convinced the latter was due to anxiety. You may find the tension is causing your pain. I have had many deaths in the family due to BC but I have only been assessed as slightly increased risk. I do have annual mammos. Don't assume you are high risk because of DM.

You know you need to go back and see your GP but hope I have helped a little. Wish you the very best.