Hello! I will begin by noting that I do have a considerable amount of anxiety, specifically health anxiety. I recently lost a parent to lung cancer and my other parent passed away a decade ago of lung cancer. So cancer definitely causes me to have anxiety. I have convinced myself I have had several different terminal diseases over the years.
Present day—I noticed some shoulder blade area pain about 1.5 weeks ago. It immediately made me think of lung cancer or breast cancer. Of course I know a lot of symptoms of both. I tried to shake it off. Went to the chiropractor and I have a pinched nerve. Then I was pushing a heavy wagon up a hill, in gravel, and realized I was out of breath. So I also know that’s a symptom of lung cancer. Then I started coughing. I also have a slight runny nose and 2 weeks ago had an ear ache. I also started having a pain in right side. Everything comes and goes and is never constant. The rib pain I’ve had for years. Then I had some arm pit pain and immediately wondered about lymph nodes. No swelling and had a mammo less than 6 months ago. I also have had a slightly hoarse voice on occasion this week but not constant. So I know a lot of the symptoms point to lung cancer. I tend to get dismissed due to having anxiety in my chart. I am female, early 40’s, no smoking. Any insight on if this sounds like when your lung cancer was diagnosed? How concerned should I be?
tbanks so much. I’m so sorry for anyone going through cancer. It has taken so many loved ones away. Thanks in advance for any insight or advice!
Hi always scared1234 ....... sorry to read about your health concerns.
I can see that you are already a member of a number of our support groups and you have posted in the groups over the last 4 years.
As you may well know and most likely have been told that Health Anxiety can be debilitating and a lot of what you have described can be associated with Health Anxiety......... but navigating the minefield of getting a clear diagnosis can be complicated but in reality...... and as you will know the only people who can actually guide you to a clear diagnosis are medical professionals.... so you do have to keep working with them.
You may want to connect in with our Lung Cancer support group..... and see if any members recognise any of your symptoms.
You may find it helpful to call the Macmillan Support Line open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support or just a listening ear.
We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow 3 working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
