Scared to get checked

Hi BeautifulRose

Thanks for getting in touch.

My name is Paula and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

I’m sorry to hear you have a small hard lump on your lower leg near your fibula which is causing you some discomfort. It’s always worrying when you have signs and symptoms and unsure what the cause is.

I can understand your concern and the fear you’re experiencing about seeing your GP, in case the lump might be cancerous. It is a natural reaction to feel this way to an uncertain situation.

Self-diagnosing through research can for some people cause more harm than good. We would suggest at this stage making an appointment to see your GP as soon as possible. They are in an ideal position to refer you for further tests and investigations if they are concerned. As not all lumps are cancerous, some can be benign and may not require any further treatment.

I know its hard not to worry but, if you feel it will help to talk through your concerns, you may find it helpful to talk to one of our nurses on the support line. Sometimes giving us a call can help. It’s a free phone number on 0808 808 0000 and we are here 7 days a week, 8am-8pm or email us. 

I hope this information has been helpful, please don’t hesitate to get back in touch.

Ref: PW/SB

• Hello  this definitely  helped me but everytime I want to push my self to book a appointment  it keeps saying there is no appointments so I can't book one if it don't exist so that affects my self confidence to booking one 

Hello BeautifulRose,

Thanks for getting back in touch. I’m Carole and I’m one of Paula’s colleagues on the Support Line. I am pleased to read that her reply was helpful, and that you have tried to make an appointment with your GP.

I’m sorry to read that you haven’t been able to get an appointment yet.

It sounds as if your GP surgery has an online booking system, but you should also be able to make an appointment over the phone, or by going into the surgery.

This would let you explain how you feel about seeing a doctor, and how the online system affects your confidence. You could also tell them that you are struggling to make an appointment.

As Paula said, not all lumps are cancerous, but getting it checked is important. If it would help to talk to one of the nurses here on the Support Line, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can chat online with us too, if you’d prefer.

I hope this is helpful,

Sending my best wishes,

Carole

Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

Our ref: AON