OpenHealth Q&A

Concerns About Cancer Amidst Lack of Progress from My GP

At 24 years old, I visited my doctor on August 21 regarding noticeable lumps in my neck. One is located on the front right side while the other is positioned under my left ear, both presenting a dome-like appearance. From what I can tell, these lumps have been there for approximately six weeks, perhaps a bit longer. I have felt well overall during the last six months, with my last illness occurring around Christmas time. Initially, I didn't give these lumps much thought; however, after experiencing a sharp pain in the left swelling one evening after drinking wine, my concern escalated. A friend, whose mother battles lymphoma, advised that I should seek medical attention. My mild neck stiffness is what initially led me to discover the lumps, prompting me to consult my GP after reaching out to the 111 service for advice. When I called 111, I mentioned additional alarming symptoms, including itching and fatigue. I attributed the recent itching in my legs to poor circulation and dismissed the fatigue as mere exhaustion. During my GP appointment, he conducted an examination and identified the swelling on my thyroid, categorizing it as a diffuse minor goitre. He referred me for an ultrasound, but he couldn’t detect the left lump; honestly, I couldn’t feel it either at that moment. While I could see the lump, I wasn’t entirely sure what I should be feeling. The ultrasound technician described my thyroid as "highly vascular and heterogeneous" and suggested a CT scan of my entire neck. My GP then expedited blood tests to coincide with the ultrasound results, which returned abnormal last week: my white blood cell count was slightly elevated, as were my monocytes, eosinophils, and CRP levels. My thyroid results, however, fell within the normal range, indicating no cause for concern there. The GP has scheduled me for a follow-up in four weeks to repeat the blood tests, including thyroid evaluations and an EBV test. I must admit that my anxiety continues to grow as both the lumps and my thyroid appear to be enlarging and firmer than before, accompanied by visible inflammation on both sides. Last week, I reached out to 111 again for advice on the next steps and expressed my growing worry. An out-of-hours GP intervened, communicating with my physician about a potential referral to ENT or Haematology. I followed up persistently with my GP last week, and while the reception staff prompted him for feedback, I received no response. Two nights ago, I found my thyroid pressing against my airway, which sent me to the emergency department. After an X-ray of my chest confirmed no immediately life-threatening issues, the staff identified my thyroid as significantly enlarged while also noticing lymph nodes on the left side of my neck and one beneath my left arm. They directed me back to my GP for another ultrasound and recommended against an immediate CT scan due to concerns about radiation exposure without a GP directive. At this point, I feel drained and unwell, unsure of how to proceed. My doctor has diagnosed me with thyroiditis on two occasions, despite my blood tests showing normal thyroid function. Other clinicians have nudged him for additional testing, yet nothing more has been done. My family's history of lymphoma adds to my apprehension. Should I simply wait for a month until the next round of blood tests, or are there alternative avenues I should pursue? My GP has previously dismissed my concerns, attributing them to my anxiety (which I manage with Sertraline), and I am now grappling with the fear of potentially misdiagnosed conditions that were not merely rooted in anxiety. Previously, I did not struggle with health-related anxiety, nor am I typically a frequent visitor to medical facilities. I am left confused about distinguishing between being disregarded and situations that genuinely pose no threat. I am seeking some sort of reassurance, whether it validates my anxiety or confirms a legitimate concern.

Answers (1)

9/14/2025, 10:50:45 PM

OpenHealth AI

It’s understandable that you’re feeling anxious given your symptoms and family history. The development of lumps, along with your other concerns, warrants careful attention. Here's a structured overview to address your situation:

Main Points

1. Your Symptoms and Diagnostics: You've experienced lumps in your neck, some discomfort, and abnormal blood tests, which are valid reasons for concern.
2. Next Steps and Considerations: It’s crucial to keep communication open with your healthcare providers and advocate for further investigations if needed.

Explanation

You are not alone in your feelings of anxiety regarding potential health issues, especially with a family history of lymphoma. The symptoms you're describing, including the enlarged thyroid and lymph nodes, need thorough investigation. Your GP's initial assessments, including blood tests and imaging, are important steps. However, the delay in follow-up and the growing size of the lumps understandably heightens your worry.

The fact that your thyroid function tests are normal, combined with your other symptoms, may suggest a non-cancerous condition like thyroiditis. However, your symptoms and unusual blood counts warrant continuous evaluation to rule out serious conditions.

Next Steps

1. Document Your Symptoms: Keep a daily log of any changes in lumps, pain, swelling, and new symptoms. This can provide valuable information when you speak with your GP again or when seeking a second opinion.

2. Regular Check-Ins: It’s important to follow up with your GP, especially regarding the upcoming blood tests. If you feel your concerns are not being addressed, consider requesting a referral to an ENT specialist or a hematologist sooner than the four-week timeline provided.

3. Seek a Second Opinion: If you continue to feel unheard or worried about your health, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion from another healthcare provider. This could provide you with more clarity and alleviate anxiety about your health status.

4. Stay Informed: Consider educating yourself about your symptoms and potential conditions that may explain them, but be cautious about excessive online searching as it can exacerbate anxiety.

5. Support and Mindfulness: Since you're already managing anxiety with Sertraline, continue with your prescribed plan and consider incorporating mindfulness practices or talking to a mental health professional for additional support during this period.

Reassurance

It’s clear that your health anxiety is influenced by your current physical health concerns, but you are taking the right steps by seeking evaluations and staying proactive. Keep open communication with your healthcare team, and trust your instincts when advocating for your health. You deserve to feel heard and assured in your care.