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Okay, so I've got a tumor in my parotid gland that needs to be excised. Radiologist leaned towards benign; surgeon leaned toward malignant, as the tumor has tripled in size over 6 months and now there is another nodule in my neck area.
My CEA is also elevated into the 4s; not a huge elevation, but elevated nonetheless. My H&H are also concentrated. Neither of these are reassuring.
My surgeon did say an elevated CEA is usually more associated with colon cancer than cancer in the parotid area and strongly advised I undergo a colonoscopy (even though I'm not in the age range when these usually start) as soon as the surgery for the parotid tumor is over.
Also, about 4 months ago, I had an odd bumpy/scaly patch on the biceps area of my right arm. Just a small area, oblong but roughly about quarter size. I only noticed it because it was painful under the rash, almost felt "bruised." This has progressed to the point where I can no longer zip/tie anything behind my back or fasten my bra from the back because ROM is limited and painful, so my husband has been doing those sorts of fastening tasks for me. Even straightening my hair has become problematic as I cannot lift my right arm into position to straighten it properly.
I can also be feeling okay and working away, when suddenly I feel dizzy and lightheaded and can feel my temperature shoot up to about 101 with no warning. Sometimes it resolves in an hour or so; other times, it won't break for 2-3 days despite my efforts to sweat to make it break.
Be honest with me, ladies. I know a bunch of you more outspoken, no-holds-barred woman are going to lay it out there for me, so this is one time I encourage you to NOT hold back.
In light of all of the above, should I be preparing myself for the malignant parotid tumor biopsy findings?
Also, how dreadful is a colonoscopy? Do they give you enough conscious sedation where you really don't care about them threading that camera up your bum? Is it painful afterward? Any odd residual effects afterwards, such as diarrhea?
I'm petrified about this entire situation but refuse to give in and let this slow me down or piddle on my life parade. But....
Be honest, please...All signs point to malignancy, don't they?
TIA for your brutal honesty, which I know will be forthcoming.
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