Lower back, groin and pain down one leg - really worried as I've got severe health anxiety.

[Milkhell]

The title says it all really. I have severe health anxiety and I'm petrified this pain (which I've had for about four weeks) is indicative if some kind of cancer.

Every ache and pain is cancer to me, but this has sent me, as usual, into an absolute tizz.

I know what the doctor will say. Let's watch and wait. They'll also think it's my health anxiety (I've just insisted on a brain scan for anxiety...)

Please help.

It sounds very much like nerve pain to me. I have a shocking lax back. My L5/S1 joint is dreadfully unstable. If I move too quickly I get a severe (properly fucking sore) back ache and leg pains. I've never had groin involvement though.

Firstly, this is very highly unlikely to be cancer.
Secondly, are you getting any help or support with your anxiety?
Thirdly sounds like a back problem and your GP can prescribe painkillers if needed and a physio referral might be helpful.

Fourthly, and lastly, many of us on here swear by our trusty hot water bottles. Heat is fabulous for sore backs. Lying down, knees supported by a cushion and a hottie under your back. The breathe and maybe listen to a mindfulness app. They are very relaxing.

is it sciatica? pilates is great for that, and a specific spine twist stretch. just go ask the gp. no need to mention cancer

Have you had CBT for the HA? That would help. Ask for a referral from your GP or Google NHS services for your area.

My HA is out of control. It's quite shocking. Every ache or pain is cancer or ME or a range of other diseases.

I was diagnosed with T1 diabetes in my late 20s (early 30s now) and since having babies it's spiralled and spiralled. I hate wasting MNetters time with my reassurance seeking!

Thank you. Ill book in with GP on Monday. Should I mention my fear re. the cancer? They know HA is a problem with me but saying out loudsounds absurd. It doesn't help that three friends of friends have had a cancer diagnosis after back pain/ other pain.

I have sciatica from time to time and your pains sound similar. As for your cancer worries-I would tell your GP because they imo they normally take worries like this seriously if only to reassure you it's not

Tell your GP everything.
You sound like you have pinched a sciatic nerve. Not cancer.
BUT you're not functioning as well as you could be with all this anxiety.

Take a multi vitamin with good levels of B complex, fish oils and make sure you're getting the proper amounts of magnesium.

Solgar do a good multi mineral and vitamin, and take omega 3 fish oils as well.

Try and spend a few minutes every day just being mindful of your breath going in and out of your nose. Sit up straight and just breathe normally, but be aware of your breath, and let the thoughts that arise drift through.

Good luck

Thank you Venus - really thoughtful and sound advice. And everyone else. X