neck tension

[Sally789]

I was diagnosed with lung cancer October 2024, this was successfully treated by removal of lower lung and I was given the “all clear”. Since the. I’ve been very well but, I keep getting throbbing which starts in my neck. Saw my GP yesterday she suggested it may be due to stress ?has anyone else experienced this ?

[Sally789]

sorry should have said October 2023

[Ann-LouiseD]

Hi, I had a lobectomy (lower left) in May 2023 . The base of my neck often feels achy/stiff, like the start of a headache. Last year, my oncologist suggested it may be stress related, which is understandable, but more recently he recommended a referral to physiotherapy. I have a appointment next week. I got introduced to the Next Steps Macmillan Team, who have a physio and clinical psychologists and provides holistic post treatment support.

[Sally789 in reply to Ann-LouiseD]

Thank you for your response, sounds interesting and yes I’m going to consult a physiotherapist.

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Hi Sally

It is good you had this checked out, it is not a symptom that you would expect after lung surgery, especially if it has been 5 months after surgery. It can often be neck tension or a change of position. If it continues or changes you could get your GP to assess this again.

You could also discuss this with your lung cancer nurse specialist.

If you feel the throbbing at the side of your neck, where the blood vessels are then do go back and get checked out, or if you develop any dizziness or change in vision with this, we would advise you go to hospital to get this checked out.

Hope you hear from others in the forum and you continue to be well.

If you would like to discuss anything you can call the nurse helpline on 0800 358 7200 Monday to Thursday 0900-1700 and Friday 0900-1600, alternatively email us at [e-mail]

Kind regards

The Roy Castle Support Team

[Sally789 in reply to RoyCastleHelpline]

Thank you for your reply, really appreciate it. It’s strange because overnight it disappears, just starts about 30 minutes after I get out of bed in the morning.

Thanks again

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Hi Sally

It could very possibly be your sleeping position or if you have had a change in pillow. It may worth getting checked out with a physiotherapist, with some GP practices you can self refer. If it continues, do get it reassessed perhaps by another GP in the practice, if nothing else peace of mind would help any anxiety that it is causing for you.

All the very best

The Roy Castle Support Team

[Sally789 in reply to RoyCastleHelpline]

I really appreciate your comments. I’m recording what’s actually happening now and going to make another appointment with my GP.

Thanks again