Subsequent to previous posts

[JHutton1994]

Went back to GP again today after previous visit about clubbed fingers and breathing trouble. Booked an urgent blood test and need to provide samples then I will get a scan to check for cancer. I don't know how I feel about this tbh, wanted him to tell me it was all in my head and for that to be true, but I don't know now.

[Yumz199725]

oh wow best to get checked out hope it's nothing serious x

[JHutton1994 in reply to Yumz199725]

Yeah, there's so much more I want to do, now the doctor not just my monkey brain is on about cancer and ILDs, it's a lot to process. I really don't want this (my life) to be over.

[Yumz199725 in reply to JHutton1994]

I think there just ruling out cancer could be something else x

[tomc]

Don`t get down hearted about this,

You do not have a definitive anything and you must (as the song say`s) Always look on the bright side of life!!

There is no reason why your doctor has referred you for scans apart from looking to rule out things.

We as humans, Always look for the worst and MAKE ourselves ill with worry.

Hopefully, there is nothing to worry about.

[Ern007]

Clubbed fingers and toes are a sign of lung problems, I have clubbing of the toes. There are quite a few reasons - I think you need you problem explained.

[MMaud]

The rapid access, cancer pathway is just a fast way of having diagnostic tests, rather than languishing in a long queue with more routine matters.

That you are in that queue does NOT mean you have cancer. It means cancer is one of many potential outcomes.

In your shoes I would be glad I was going to be seen quickly and not at some point well into next year, or even the next.

Whatever you do, don’t panic. Easier said than done, but panic is exhausting and helps absolutely nothing

[Patk1]

Your v fortunate to access appointments so frequently,I can't even get in the 24 people queue! Hope the tests put Yr mind at rest

[JHutton1994 in reply to Patk1]

I find polite assertiveness very effective. Didn't need to explain to the last doctor what's associated with clubbed fingers although the first three were happy to leave it and refused my requests for diagnostic tests which in hindsight I find very bizarre.

[Patk1 in reply to JHutton1994]

We have a queue system on phone to gp practise before u get thro to reception.a phone queue of 24 callers.when 24 people r already waiting,u automatically get cut off.so your r very fortunate to have had various appointments f2f- I've not been able to speak to gp for 18mths!

[rosco59]

I agree with MMaud the rapid access speeds things along. I too panicked when I was put on the two week fast track last year but the scans and tests came back normal for someone with Bronchiectasis. I think this system is being used more to ensure those with serious issues don’t slip through the net because of long waiting times. Please try not to see this as a forgone conclusion but as a means of ruling things out and getting to the bottom of what is wrong. I know that’s easier said than done though.

Incidentally I too have clubbing on my toes.

I do hope your results come back all fine and you can carry on with your life. Good luck.

[JHutton1994 in reply to rosco59]

Yeah, grateful for the speed at which things will move. Just not too thrilled with the potential outcome, hopefully if it is anything like that it will be early doors. Trouble is I don't know how long I have had clubbed fingers for only started getting mentioned 3 weeks ago. Which is around the same time all the wheezing and more pronounced breathlessness started. Always breathed a bit heavy thanks to the Marlborough man, but it was never this bad, which as I found out from my 2WW letter they wrote off as COVID when I raised those concerns with them despite not having it.

[Pippydo]

One step at a time, try not to look any further ahead than the tests they are going to do and as others have said could be many other things, best wishes to you.

[katieoxo60]

Hello Jhutton1994, the cancer doubt route is the quickest way to make sure one way or another. It will relieve your anxiety if its not cancer , or vise versa if it is you will be treated quickly with a good outcome hopefully. I know what it feels like I recently had cancer treatment for a curable cancer as they call them within three months I had the all clear. So can emphasis with your feeling. I had to see two specialist to get the treatment. But in my case there was no doubt to spite the hospital approach. So best wishes for a quick all clear or the necessary treatment. Take care.

[Numptybrain]

Please try not to panic, I’ve been tested for cancer and it’s still ongoing. It’s the first thing they do. It doesn’t mean it’s cancer but it’s the first tests before more tests are done, it’s a quicker way in as well to be referred to a consultant so you’re doctor is doing the right thing.

Good luck

Wendy x

[JHutton1994 in reply to Numptybrain]

Thanks Wendy. Trying not to think about it too much or hate myself for smoking for over a decade, it achieves nothing. I just really don't want this to be the end, which I am sure you understand. Hopefully all of your stuff is clear or it's very early doors and there's lots they can do.

[Alberta56]

Fingers crossed that the tests will reveal nothing too bad. Don't forget that even cancer is not necessarily a death sentence these days. The doctors have lots of treatments to try. Why don't you make a bucket list of things you want to do after or even during treatment. Hope this doesn't sound too facetious. xxx

[Kate124]

I have clubbed nails and breathing problems, I have COPD which they said straight away after looking at nails. Which was later confirmed