I’ve been having pain in my left side, sort of behind my ribs since July. Sometimes a dull ache, and weirdly worse if I bend my head forward.
Also got very itchy armpits and chest area, with no rash and do get night sweats perhaps 5 nights out of 7, which I’ve been putting down to menopause (I’m 45). I’ve felt run down for months, never refreshed after sleeping and feel achy, with sore joints, ankles particularly.
I had recent annual blood tests which show elevated monocytes and eosinophils, low haematocrit and low potassium (all out of range), which I’ve never had. I haven’t mentioned these symptoms to my doctor yet but did have an ultrasound on a neck lump last year, which they wanted to repeat, but hasn’t happened yet. I’ve also got a new lump on the back of my neck, which is hard and a bit larger than a pea.
Am I overthinking or should i make an appointment? I should also add that I’m a nursing sister and we make the worst patients
Dear @Zem,
Welcome to our forum, although I am sorry to read about the symptoms you are experiencing.
You may find our 'Blood cancer symptoms and signs’ page helpful to read - it contains information on what to look out for, as well as prompts for questions you might like to ask your doctor.
Having read the symptoms you are experiencing I would suggest making an appointment to see the doctor as soon as possible. These symptoms will need full assessment and investigation. It is great you have had some recent bloods as the GP will be able to go through these with you also.
As it explains on the webpage:
“Most people who have symptoms described on this page won’t have blood cancer. But it’s worrying to have symptoms you can’t explain, and important to find out what’s causing them, if only to set your mind at rest. If you have just one symptom that you can’t explain, that goes on for a long time, or is unusual for you, book an appointment with your GP. If you suddenly feel very unwell at any time, get medical help straight away by calling 999 or going to A&E.”
As a fellow nurse I agree, we make the worst patients, but on this occasion its important to prioritise you!
If you would like to talk things through you can call us on 0808 2080 888.
Best wishes and keep is updated,
Heidi J (Support Services Nurse)