husband has had CT scan, now waiting for more tests

Hi EmlouC welcome to the group, but sorry to hear about your husband. I know how much of a shock this must be for you both. I am sorry you feel like no one is able to tell you what is happening at the moment, but the truth is they probably don't know anything more than what they have told you so far. GP's are not cancer specialists, so he can only read you what is on that report, and in my opinion, he shouldn't be saying your husband is stage 4 without all of the facts. I know it is frustrating, we have all been there. With any suspected cancer, there is a pathway that needs to be followed. In other words there is a list of necessary tests and appointments that need to happen before any details are even passed to the oncologist. The first port of call with any suspected lung cancer, is the respiratory department. Your husband will undergo a few tests here, including breathing tests to see how well his lungs are working. From here, if the respiratory team still think it is cancer, you are passed to the oncology team. Unfortunately, it doesn't mean at this point you will still get definite answers. Your husband may need further ct scans or a pet scan. If cancer is detected he may also have to have a biopsy. All of this takes time, and there will seem like there is a long period of time sat waiting for tests, or results. It can take anything from 6 to 12 weeks from the initial referral to start of any treatment. 

I know this sounds like a long time, but it really is important for all of these tests to get an accurate diagnoses. There are so many different types of lung cancer and different treatments, and it is so important to get the right one. And this is the thing to remember, there are so many treatments for lung cancer now. So many people are now living much longer lives after a lung cancer diagnoses. And new treatments are coming along all the time as well. 

I know how hard these next few weeks are going to be for you both. Hang on in there, it will get easier. 

Hi chellesimo  thanks for your message and support, that's really helpful. Just some information like you have given would have been helpful from the GP! 

6-12 weeks does sound like an agonising amount of time in this limbo of not knowing what's next! But like you say, hopefully it will get easier. 

I'm trying to stop thinking of the worst case scenario and stay positive for my husband. 

Thanks again x

GP’s are not the most sympathetic these days are they. You will find you will get much more support from the oncology team. X 

Hi EmlouC,so sorry to hear your story and I know how devastated you must feel,I like your husband had problems and even various tests for 2 years before they referred me to to an oncologist who is of course the expert who can interpret the results coming back from the many tests they need in order to confirm a cancer diagnosis .I had 4 ct scans a pet scan ,2 sets of breathing tests and a biopsy before even he would confirm a diagnosis of cancer.I have since had part of my lung removed a week ago am home out of pain and back doing doggy walks but still I don't know what stage cancer I am at and the oncologist,surgeon,and certainly no doctor can tell ,untill the results come back from the lab who test what was removed at the op ,which takes 3to 4 weeks.Then there are incredible breakthroughs and a myriad of successfull treatments tailored to deal with all types all stages all areas of cancer. I know its a huge blow and we naturally think the worst,but please try and stay positive ,it may take a while and several trips to various specialising hospitals...I have been to 5...but once in the system I have found the care and support will magically appear ,you are not on your own .x

Hi Ludlow  thank you for your message, it's really helpful to hear a positive story. I'm glad to hear you are out of pain and back with your doggies ! I'm sorry you had such a long journey to get there. 

We went to see the respiratory team and Macmillan nurses this week and got a bit more information and empathy from them.

My husband has a pet scan tomorrow, so hopefully we will know a bit more once we have results from that! 

Xx

Hi EmlouC,that's good news,now you will have a team to guide you through and in my case they were amazing.I think the waiting without any information is the worst as our natural reaction is to dwell on worst case scenario.Once the pet scan is analysed you will be given treatment options and be  able to plan your next move, feel more in control and get the support you need.You will not be left alone worrying hon.I realised the fitter you are the better the body copes with any treatment,lots of low fat protein, clean carbs ,i even gave up cake !!! veggies and regular exercise as if in training I found really helped my recovery.

Good luck and try to stay positive x