Am I a hypochondriac for worrying about changes in my breast?

DEAR DEIDRE: I have made an appointment recently for a check up because I was experiencing pain in my breast.

At first I ignored it until I recently saw another change (my nipple started to dip, becoming inverted).

I’m wondering if I should attend this appointment. I am 39 years old but I think my doctor treats me as if I am a hypochondriac. I’m worried the doctor will think this is all in my head.

My dad died last year after being diagnosed with cancer. I have a family history of breast cancer on my mum’s side of the family and one member on my dad’s side. Is it possible to get breast cancer at my age?

I feel so ashamed about even going in case I am seen as a time waster. My husband and mother-in-law think I am an attention seeker so I can’t tell anyone close to me.

How do I deal with this?

DEIDRE SAYS: Please, please attend this appointment. It is always a good idea to get any symptoms that are recent, unexplained or unusual checked by your GP.

It’s only natural that you worry you may get cancer after your mum and dad have been affected by this disease. 

Early detection is key so don’t ever feel worried you’ll be seen as a time waster.

There are families where people may have a higher risk of developing a certain type of cancer. It is possible to develop breast cancer at a young age. Talk to Macmillan Cancer Support (macmillan.org.uk, 0808 808 0000) for advice and support.